try using cigarette papers you know RIZLA...RIPS...ZIG-ZAGS...i personally use the zig-zag brand as they are made from unbleached hemp and flax...[cough cough]
very strong even when wet. i use them to simulate all fabrics...from flags to zeltbahn.
also for the cloth on fabric covered aircraft.. my T34 dio [posted here] the figs in that have zig zag helmet covers,, zeltbahn,, i made a greatcoat for the corpse under the tank with them too...carefully shaped and painted you can make items of clothing for your dioramas... [uniform jackets,,trousers ,, washing line items,,rags ,,flags,,]
you think of it you can probably find a use for em somewhere
regards....D....