The ball-and-socket is a mechanical device consisting of rod with ball end (usually, metallic), fitting into a socket: when the ball is rotated in the socket the rod shifts from the vertical or horizontal; a chain of these can be made to effect "any" kind of curved chain.

• MINIATURIZE THESE DEVICES, preferably from plastic material;
• COVER A CHAIN OF THESE WITH THREAD;
• WEAVE CLOTH FROM THREAD;
• CREATING SCULPCLOTH, WHICH CAN BE MADE TO HOLD VARIOUS CURVITURES OF SURFACE.

Does anyone remember the "Emperor Ming" collars in the comic strip, Flash Gordon? Even more elaborate effects could be obtained.