Title text:
Detectives say the key to tracking down the source of the kites was a large wall map covered in thumbtacks and string. 'It's the first time that method has ever actually worked,' said a spokesperson.
Transcript:
Transcript will show once it’s been added to explainxkcd.com
Source: https://xkcd.com/3121/
That won't work. The lifting force required to keep the string and kites aloft is proportional to their weight. The lifting force they can obtain from the wind is proportional to the horizontal force exerted. The first segment of kite string is going to be under stress sufficient to hold the entire chain aloft; it won't hold.
Could spider silk be the solution to this?
Super lightweight and very strong. Plus it's springy, so that can even out any sharp tugs on the line.