How Tension Fabric Systems Elevates Large Format Graphics for Less

Cost-Effective LED Lightbox Alternative

High-quality printed graphics can transform uninspiring spaces into unforgettable visitor experiences. The way you display them, however, can make or break their impact.

Tension frame systems (or tension fabric systems) turn your graphics into an eye-catching display which drives action, even in the busiest areas

What Is a Tension Fabric System?

Tension fabric systems hold fabric graphics in tension using an aluminium frame for added durability and flexibility. At Leach, we use UV and dye sublimation techniques when printing to our eco-screen fabric and apply silicone edging to attach them to the aluminium frame.

Perfect for large-format graphics, tension frames lend themselves to unique shapes and sizes, making them ideal for any application. They are available wall-mounted, suspended from the ceiling or free-standing.

Lightbox vs Tension Frame System

Lightboxes and tension systems offer the same versatility, flexibility and portability. So what makes them different?

Tension fabric systems include frontlit display fabric, which reflects natural light for a colourful, vibrant display. Simply put, it’s not illuminated.

Lightboxes use LED lights to illuminate the graphics from behind the display (backlit) or at the edges (edge-lit). The light glows across the surface, adding further definition to your graphics and/or text.

The choice between lightboxes or tension frames will depend on your project needs, budget and space.

4 Reasons to Use Tension Frames

1 – Flexible Design & Application

Tension frames are highly flexible in terms of shape, size and fitting. At Leach, we work around our client’s goals, creating bespoke fabric displays for many applications.

Our lightboxes and tension frames are found in trade shows, exhibitions, window displays and museums. Explore our recent case studies to see how we can bring your vision to life.

2 – Cost-effective 

Single-use displays may seem affordable, but they’ll cost you in the long run. Instead, tension fabric displays can be used over and over without damaging their frame.

All our tension displays have interchangeable graphics and a durable aluminium frame supporting multiple uses. Plus, with no LED lights, you won’t need any power to make a statement.

We recommend incorporating eco-materials for the most sustainable solution.

3 – Easy to Assemble

Like lightboxes, tension fabric displays have a modular design, which means they can easily be assembled on-site, packed up and transported or stored for future use.

Whether you go for a grand ceiling display or a modest wall fixture, our team will handle the entire installation.

4 – Outstanding Graphics

Tension frames offer excellent space for large-format graphics, print and text to boost your brand image. Your high-impact graphics will demand attention from passersby with striking frame sizes of up to 25m (width or height only).

During manufacturing, your fabric graphics are carefully stretched across the frame, removing any creases or lines upon final installation. The results? Crisp, seamless imagery.

Need Help on Your Project?

Our in-house designers offer over a century of experience working with large format graphics and print. Whether you need help planning a series of lightboxes or tension fabric displays, we can assist you with every step – from design to installation.

Share your project brief with our team, and we’ll be in touch.

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