I don't know, ELYSIUM, my method is pretty tedious. While it's precise, it can take a lot of work. (My tutorial model was really an exercise to demonstrate the capability of SketchUp ... and somebody dared me!)
For quick representation of a rope, I'd try the textured method suggested by remus.
For quickly producing an actual twisted construction, I'd use the "Follow me rotate" plugin. See this discussion:
http://www.sketchucation.com/forums/scf/viewtopic.php?f=180&t=12965
So, Casey, now you've got several options!
(...and we haven't even gotten into the catenary-sag issue, yet.)
Taff