I can definitely see two cords running down his arm - and he has two cords in his right hand. I can't tell if the top end is tied to something else, but whatever the case Magenta and Columbia use scissors to free it. I think you could just tie it (if you don't want to replace the severed cords every show).
He also has an extra piece of fabric under the strips of cord - presumably to hide any gaps from the lacing and prevent any rope burn.
The fabric is probably some kind of knit - and knits are great because they're form-fitting and don't fray.
