A stand for a portable object such as a stringed musical instrument or a tablet, the stand comprising a continuously extending length of material that is configured to provide a base (1) for resting on a floor surface, a cradle portion (6) for supporting the weight of the portable object in a vertical direction, and a back portion (8, 9, 12) on which an upper part of the portable object can rest, and the base extending a substantial distance at least to the rear of the cradle portion for stability, the arrangement being such that the cradle portion and back portion are resiliently movable in use to absorb forces that may be exerted on the object.