I still prefer the rope seat myself.

Drew, don't you live near Monroe? Why not just give Dan at Lavro a call and see if he'll sell you some of the black nylon they use? It's nice grabby stuff, but not abrasive. He'd probably show you the finish knot if you picked it up at the shop too.

BTW, 1/2" sounds too big. I think 3/8" is probably more what you're looking for. Easier to tighten, nicer to sit on and stays flatter threaded through 1/2' holes.

Might be worth giving Clack a call to see what they recommend as well.
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Matt. 8:27   The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”