In a system and method of shadow mask tensioning, an object having second set of alignment features is positioned on a side of shadow mask having a first set of alignment features such that the object and the shadow mask can move independently of each other and the first and second sets of alignment features are not in final alignment. Tension is then applied to the shadow mask to bring the first set of alignment features into final alignment with the second set of alignment features. The alignment features of the shadow mask can include at least one deposition aperture of the shadow mask.