I usually use staples to position and weigh down poster board when using them as pullers, but lately I've been using a velvet-like material (velvet, he called it) and the clamps don't have enough reach or depth to get around the supports so I bought them. They are very suitable for light applications. I also have cheap, larger 4 1/2" lanterns that I use to keep the muslin backs taut, in this case they work very well. I wrote another review on them. Some reviewers use 3 3/ 4" to hold 10' x 20' backgrounds and wonder why they fail. They're crazy about it. First, let's look at the name of this product, Cheaplights, which easily equates to Light Duty. Yes! To hold large backgrounds, use pony clips. I have half a dozen pony clips in sizes 1, 2, and 3. They are significantly more expensive but are designed for heavy loads. In general, use the right tool for the job.