A method of cutting and spooling a paper web by providing a transfer tape having a cover flap joined longitudinally to a carrier member along the trailing edge such that the cover flap opens in a hinged manner to expose a pressure sensitive adhesive layer on the carrier member for adherence to an advancing paper web for severance and transfer of the paper web onto an empty spool. The transfer tape is adhered to an empty spool. The cover flap is opened by air resistance encountered during rotation of the spool, by providing an adhesive tab member on the exterior of the cover flap that initiates opening upon adhesion of the tab member to the reel drum, or by providing a blast of pressurized air against the leading edge of the transfer tape.