when it comes to twisted fibers, the difference between sewing threads and hawsers for tying up the QEII is simple one of size..and fiber type.

sewing thread is fine cotton, and hawsers are (i dunno!) but they are both made from twisted strands of fiber, that has been plied.
the strands are spun, (one finer, the other coarser)and plied, and the end product is (in construction) basically identical.
(knitted 'cables'(refered to only scantly) are an entirely different subject.)
but from sewing thread to laid cable, is almost fractal.. sewing thread is most certainly made of twisted plies, --anyone who had threaded (or tried to thread) a fine needle knows that!


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