A folding base has a hinge body, and a stand emanates vertically from adjacent a center of the hinge body. A plurality of legs radiate from the hinge body and provide ground contact. Between and pivotally coupling each leg to the hinge body is one of a plurality of torque hinges, so that individual ones of the legs are rotationally coupled to the hinge body through a torque generating member. Preferably the torque required to pivot a leg with respect to the hinge body is greater than that generated solely by lifting a leg from the ground or supporting surface. The torque hinge may also be knurled to permit a secure and permanent press fit to the associated leg and the hinge body.