In a shadow mask tensioning method and apparatus, a shadow mask supported by a support frame is positioned between a shadow mask frame and a set of actuators with a portion of the shadow mask extending across a gap between the support frame and the shadow mask frame. Under the control of a programmed controller, the set of actuators is caused to simultaneously displace numerous, spaced locations of the portion of the shadow mask into the gap to align alignment apertures of the shadow mask to predetermined positons in fields of view of cameras positioned to observe the alignment apertures. The shadow mask is then affixed to the shadow mask frame.

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.