I have made many ropes that look authentic by using the rope machine for my scale 1700-1800 s war ships and fishing schooners . I am going to do the same thing when making cable for armored vehicles. didn't know if anyone was or is aware you can do this.
Some kits come with a strand of thread which is far from authentic. these machines are fairly inexpensive. i will probably use some fine wire rather than thread for the armor project