This paper discusses the process of real life testing in the development of a more accurate computational model for tensile fabric structures. It shows how the test results (reaction forces, displacements and strain visualisations through Digital Image Correlation) contribute to a fuller understanding of the structural behaviour of tensile fabric structures. A two-dimensional, triangular membrane geometry is subjected to different cycles with a vertical loading whilst the reaction forces, displacements and strains are measured. These experimental evaluations will be compared to some conventional computational models [1] and form the basis and initial validation of a new, more refined model for tensioned fabrics.