To further clarify, the research paper does not contain the word "braid" which the lay-article uses erroneously. You're describing the fabrication of a multi-s

To further clarify, the research paper does not contain the word "braid" which the lay-article uses erroneously. You're describing the fabrication of a multi-strand cable. Braided raw fibers makes for really bad rope. (I too have some passing familiarity with ancient ropemaking; I did a similar workshop and I've applied the knowledge in a pinch)