Cardboard Display Tubes
Our cardboard display tubes are perfect for a wide range of creative applications, from film and TV set props to retail window displays and visual merchandising. Whether you’re building custom display tubes for promotional use or large-scale installations, the possibilities are endless.
We’ve produced display structures for major productions—trees in Band of Brothers, Roman shields in Gladiator, oil drums for James Bond, and even a full paddle steamer for The Legend of Tarzan.
Our jumbo cardboard tubes feature a smooth finish, making them ideal for painting or wrapping with lining paper to suit your project’s visual needs.
Information on our cardboard display tubes
Cardboard Display Tube Guarantees
Strong Cardboard Display Tubes
Our display tubes can be sawn, screwed or stapled. In drum form they are capable of supporting items as heavy as a washing machine!
Bespoke Sizes
We can create any size display tube for bespoke projects, our facilities allow us to create tubes up to 13 metres in length, perfect for large film sets and display stands.
Lightweight
Although strong, our display tubes are extremely light, meaning they have easy manoeuvrability around film sets.
Fire Resistance
The tubes are made of multi layered cardboard coils compressed together. In itself not very combustible, but with a simple application of a retardant liquid such as Broguard, will satisfy any recognised tests for fire resistance.
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Eco-Friendly Cardboard Display Tubes
All of our products are 100% environmentally friendly, being able to be recycled after use, even down to the water-based glue. The tube winding process itself is chemically waste-free, and any cardboard waste from the tube winding process is also re-pulped and reused in further cardboard tubes.
Creative Applications of Cardboard Display Tubes
Cardboard display tubes are not only used for presenting physical products; they also serve as a versatile component in set design, staging, and visual installations.
Their lightweight structure, smooth surface, and adaptability make them a popular choice in the creative industries, particularly for film, television, and theatre production.
Our tubes have been featured in projects requiring structural props, custom-built backdrops, and artistic installations.
To see real-world examples and explore how they support creative direction on set, read our blog: How Cardboard Display Tubes Bring Creative Visions to Life in Film and TV.
We also offer bespoke sizing, finishes, and colour options to help bring unique design concepts to life.
How Cardboard Tubes Enhance Creative Projects
- Lightweight & Strong – Provides structural integrity without the weight of metal or plastic.
- Seamless Customisation – Paint, wrap, or coat for a flawless, professional finish.
- Sustainable & Recyclable – A greener alternative to plastic or fibreglass props.
From themed retail displays to large-scale installations, our jumbo cardboard tubes help designers push creative boundaries while keeping costs and environmental impact low.
Industries Using Cardboard Display Tubes
- Film & TV Production – Used for props, set pieces, and immersive backgrounds.
- Retail & Window Displays – Custom-sized tubes for in-store branding and promotional installations.
- Theatre & Live Events – Lightweight, durable materials ideal for stage props and scenic backdrops.
- Exhibitions & Museums – Creating interactive displays and art installations.
Choosing the Right Display Tube for Your Needs
Not all display tubes are the same. Size, thickness, and finish all play a role in how well they integrate into your project. We offer custom display tubes tailored to specific dimensions and design requirements, ensuring you get the perfect solution.
Need advice? Contact our team to discuss your project requirements!
Explore Our Full Range of Cardboard Tubes
Alongside display tubes, we manufacture a variety of high-quality cardboard tubes for other applications:
- Mailing Tubes – Designed for secure and reliable shipping, protecting important documents, posters, and artwork.
- Custom Cardboard Tubes – Tailored to your specifications, with options for custom branding and sizes.
- Industrial Packaging Tubes – Perfect for protecting large or fragile components during shipping and storage.
No matter your project needs, Essex Tubes has the right solution to ensure strength, sustainability, and cost-efficiency.
Think we can help?
Get In Touch
We love creating new and unique projects with our cardboard display tubes and taking on challenging ideas. We’re certain we will be able to fulfil your desires and go above and beyond your expectations, so get in touch with us today to discuss your requirements and specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How strong are cardboard display tubes?
Despite being lightweight, our tubes are incredibly strong and durable. They are designed to support structural elements in stage and film sets, making them a reliable choice for demanding creative applications.
Are there standard sizes for display tubes, or can they be custom-made?
While there are common sizes, we offer customisable options to fit specific project needs. Whether you need jumbo display tubes for large installations or small tubes for detailed props, we can create the perfect size for your project.
Are cardboard display tubes environmentally friendly?
Absolutely! Our tubes are made from sustainable, recyclable materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic or fibreglass display components. They can also be repurposed or recycled after use.
Do you offer bulk orders for large-scale projects?
Yes, we cater to bulk orders for film productions, retail displays, and exhibitions. If you need custom sizes or large quantities, contact us to discuss your project needs.
Customer Testimonials
Presented below are testimonials from our customers who have purchased our mailing tubes.
Our belief lies in fostering robust customer relationships, attainable solely through the delivery of mailing tubes that are both high-quality and efficient.
As the creators of the mailing tubes themselves, you have a direct connection to the individuals responsible for their production. Should you have any inquiries regarding our mailing tubes, please contact us today!