There is loads of variation historically. I was simply mentioning what I find easiest to use to create the desired result.
About the suspension... I would really not be scared away from lacing it as per the Peter Johnson directions, it's really not that hard. Even with thicker stuff. You may want to soften the leather up a bit before you lace it, but it's not necessary.
Here are a few images of laced scabbards.
Best,
Hadrian
P.S. What year/ region are you going for? That will help in determining the exact form of lacing and such you may want... as well as what is historically most sound.
![](images/icon_clip.gif)
![Maciejowski scabbard lacing.jpg](files/maciejowski_scabbard_lacing_291.jpg)
![](images/icon_clip.gif)
![Sword of King Sancho IV of Castile, circa 1298..JPG](files/sword_of_king_sancho_iv_of_castile__circa_1298._169.jpg)
![](images/icon_clip.gif)
![Sword of the Infante Fernando de la Cerda, circa 1270..JPG](files/sword_of_the_infante_fernando_de_la_cerda__circa_1270._190.jpg)
![](images/icon_clip.gif)
![tempora nostra.jpg](files/tempora_nostra_165.jpg)
![](images/icon_clip.gif)
![Maciejowski bible lacing II.jpg](files/maciejowski_bible_lacing_ii_179.jpg)