Hello Gerard,
Thanks for your comments, I use urea-formaldehyde resin adhesive which I decided on after some research and experimentation for it's long track record (it was used in WWII Mosquito bombers) and extremely strong waterproof bond. I know that Stradivari did use linen in cello ribs and I think it may prevent or reduce some cracks. I do think the silk between the maple is more effective though. By the way, I had a look at your website and I like your C-extensions. I like that you don't cut or pass the string through the scroll and that the capos are tunable-good work!
Jim Ham