I get good results using Pattern Along Path in Inkscape. I can adjust the base path until the marks placed along it look right. The trick is to use two Pattern Along Path effects together, first the lines perpendicular to the base path, then the shape of the individual mark. You can also toss in a Sketch effect in between to get a bit of randomness.

Click image for larger version. 

Name:	a.png 
Views:	126 
Size:	123.3 KB 
ID:	55034
Click image for larger version. 

Name:	b.png 
Views:	118 
Size:	272.8 KB 
ID:	55035
Click image for larger version. 

Name:	c.png 
Views:	65 
Size:	287.2 KB 
ID:	55036
Click image for larger version. 

Name:	d.png 
Views:	110 
Size:	274.0 KB 
ID:	55037

I've used it several times:

Picture 1 of 1 from RetroMUD
Picture 3 of 4 from Other
Picture 4 of 4 from Other
Picture 3 of 5 from Contest Entries