I have some tubular webbing that I'm going to use to make jack lines. What's the best way to attach them to the pad eyes? Can I use a knot or should I sew a loop and use a carabiner...other ideas?
Jackline is one word. A jack line. for example, can be found on the luff of some sails near the tack.
Do not use nylon climbing webbing. Too much stretch.
Most likely, proper sewing is the only way to get the required strength, since a knot takes ~ 40% of the strength. Climbers can knot 1" webbing slings because they are used in a loop. But you need to research the stitching methods (see Sailrite). Also, test the strength of your sitching by sewing just one row and bouncing on that with body weight.
Probably the safest DIY method uses Dyneema singlebraid, since it is easy to splice.
Attaching them to bow and stern cleats is a problem, since you can ten fall off the bow or stern. Really, they should be anchored 3-4 feet back from the ends. It's a common, lazy solution.
Best of luck and be careful!
jackline locations