mr dazzler said:
does twisting together increase the strength?
should greatly increase the strength specially with shorter softer fibres
twisitng will force one fibre to grip the ones closest to it
try it with a lump of sheepswool pulled from a fence for a quick demonstration
i think with plant fibres it is important to soften the fibres so that they bend instead of break when they are twisted
soaking them in water before twisting will help
also leaving them soaking in water for 2 or 3 weeks helps rot the cells leaving mainly fibres
this is the way they used to make linen from flax plants
stinks when it comes out the water but hey linen tablecloths are nice
Tant