A portable device was developed to enable replacement of broken bale ties after initial packaging at the gin. The device can be operated by one person and can repair bales in 5-10 minutes. The device returns the bale to its original density and a standard length tie is installed. The device can be operated in the vertical or horizontal mode. It can be installed on a trailer or it can be positioned with a forklift to meet operational needs. The low-cost device provides a solution to replacing bale ties at the gin or in subsequent shipping or storage operations.