Tension Fabric Stands

There are a plethora of different names and variations for displays using a stretch or elastic fabric, including fabric tube stands, EZ Tube displays, and stretch stands. While we call it a tension fabric stand, all of these terms are typically interchangeable. In the end, you’re getting a display stand featuring stretch fabric that is extremely portable and most often used for presentations, conferences and events of a similar temporary nature. The sign name that most often indicates a different type of sign is a pop up display. Pop up displays, as offered and called on our website, do not come with a pole frame but are an actual sign that literally pops up and uses a stretch fabric with Velcro to adhere to the display unit that collapses for safe travel. These are commonly used as backdrops and are significantly bigger and more expensive than our fabric tension stands as outlined on this page. Lastly, tension displays are similar to our tension fabric stands in both frame assembly and stretch fabric, but similar to pop up displays are much wider and more commonly used as backdrops at events and tradeshows. Due to the much bigger size of these displays they are more expensive than the smaller tension stands detailed on this page. So while the alphabet soup of terms may be confusing, we offer a wide variety of event and tradeshow signage and are happy to both answer your questions and help design your sign or display for free!

The display is made from an 8.8 oz. elastic polyester, giving the material a stretchable quality while maintaining exceptional durability and image quality.

Tension fabric is a high quality, elastic polyester that is designed to stretch in order to be pulled taut against a display frame. This elastic quality is not offered in standard polyester fabric. Regardless, both standard and elastic polyester are extremely durable and lightweight, making them perfect for display use. Both are printed on using dye sublimation, which infuses the ink directly into the material. This results in a permanent design that is scratch and fade resistant. Tension fabric is used within our tension stand, tension fabric displays, and pop-up displays. Standard polyester can be found in our fabric banners and flag banners.Muslin fabrics are typically made from a natural cotton-based thread, which is similar to lightweight cotton cloth. Designs are either screen printed or stitched into the material. Muslin displays are usually for indoor decorative purposes only. We do not offer any products made from muslin.Canvas prints and displays are crafted from a thick linen or cotton blend. Canvas is thicker and more durable than muslin, but does not outclass the durability of polyester. Canvas is used for painting, printing photographs, or decorative displays. We offer canvas photo prints as part of our Signs For Home product line, which is tailored for home decor purposes.Vinyl is the thickest material, offering incredible durability without compromising versatility and lightweight properties. Our vinyl banners are crafted from a 13 oz. vinyl and are printed on using high quality, vibrant UV ink. Vinyl is sunlight, weather, and water resistant, meaning it can be displayed outdoors without worry of it being damaged.

Quickly and easily attach the display to the frame by pulling it over the top of the frame. The pillowcase-like design allows for ease in pulling it over the frame. The elastic material will fit snug against the frame once the display is fully pulled over it. 

The display should not sag or bunch up when properly displayed on the frame. Tension provided by the frame as well as the elastic material of the display will ensure the display is smooth and wrinkle free when fully assembled.

There are no visible seams or hems on the display portion of the tension stand. There is stitching down the sides of the display that is unnoticeable when displayed. 

Setting up your tension stand does not require any additional tools and can be set up in less than 10 minutes. Your tension stand will come with a total of 8 poles, a solid metal stand, and the polyester display. Each pole part is labeled with numbers at either end (for example, a pole will have “2” at one end and a “3” at the other end). The “2” will match to another “2” and likewise with “3” matching up to another “3”.Begin assembling the sides of the frame by starting with the bottom vertical poles. These poles are unique in that they have plastic connectors on the side. One pull will be labeled with “1” and the other “6” at the end. Connect the “1” end with the pole with ends labeled “1 - 2,” with the “1” ends matching up. Then connect the “2 - 3” pole. This process will be repeated for the other side, with poles labeled “6 - 5” and “5 - 4” respectively. Once the sides are completed, attach them to the top pole of the frame, which is labeled “3 - 4”. Next, attach the cross pole to the plastic attaching points at the bottom of the frame. This pole is not labeled by numbers and can be attached to either end of the plastic connectors. Screw the pole onto the frame by tightening the plastic screw mechanism. Take care not to over tighten the screw, as doing so could break the connector pieces. Once the frame is assembled it’s time to place the display over it. Make sure the display is completely laid out before placing it on the frame. Carefully slip the fabric over the frame, making sure it does not snag or bunch up on itself. Place the completed frame and display onto the metal base plate using the snap buttons on the pole stubs of the base. These use the same button mechanism as the rest of the pole set. With the base attached to the frame, your tension stand is now ready for display.

The display portion of the tension stand can be machine washed on a low spin cycle setting using cold water. Do not use heavy detergents or bleach when washing the display. Allow the display to air dry after washing. Do not put the display in a tumble dryer, as using one will cause warping of the fabric and possible damaging of the printed design.