Abstract: A method and article for applying tension to a filament using a filament tensioning apparatus comprising a tensioning holder including at least one support bar. A first carriage is mounted at a first location on a support bar. The first carriage has a first clamp and a voice coil mounted thereon for movement relative to a support bar. A second carriage mounted at a second location on a support bar provides a separation between the first location and the second location. The second carriage has a second clamp and a load cell mounted thereon for movement relative to a support bar. A guide bar extends from the voice coil for contact with the load cell to adjust the separation of the first location from the second location to apply tension to a filament held between the first clamp and the second clamp.