I'm not comfortable using nylon thread because it is slippery. If it ever starts un-raveling then watch out
, but out of respect for your Daddy, I would "test" his theory. Yorkiedaze had a good idea to test the fabric on a scrap. I would go one step further and make a "strap" and tie up something really heavy and let it hang..... like maybe a large bottle of laundry detergent, or a gallon of water (8 lbs).