Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for the measurement of tension in a stretched elastic surface. The apparatus includes a rigid housing having at least two diametrically opposed sides and a spring device contained therein with a contact member connected to the spring device which protrudes a predetermined distance outwardly beyond the ends of the housing sides when the spring device is in a resting state. Measuring and display devices are connected to the spring device for measuring the spring deflection when the housing is pressed against an elastsic surface. The housing is placed adjacent the elastic surface to be measured with the contact member in contact with the elastsic surface such that a fixed distance exists between the ends of the housing sides and the surface prior to application of a pressing force. The housing is then pressed against the elastic surface until the ends of the housing sides come into contact with the surface such that the spring device is deflected.