Within many long pieces of synthetic thread (5)

I believe the answer is:

nylon

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'synthetic thread' is the definition.
'nylon' can be an answer for 'thread' (thesaurus). I am not certain of the 'synthetic' bit.

'within many long pieces' is the wordplay.
'within' indicates a hidden word.
'NYLON' is hidden within 'many long pieces'.

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nylon that I've seen before include "Hose" , "where ladder can appear?" , "Stocking; polymer" , "Fibre of polymeric amides" , "Artificial material" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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