> David,

> Using rope in lieu of a backup plate should work well - however, because
> quite a bit of stress can be introduced to this point, and the primary
> function of the backup plate is to distribute these forces over a larger
> area, it would be wise to reinforce the area of the slots with additional
> glass during layup.

I see what you mean, and I agree. I'd rather delay the decision about exactly where to place the slots, though, so I'll offer another variation. What if the webbing passes through a slotted backing plate before it gets to the rope? It seems like a disk of tough material (plastic?) would help to distribute the load. Do you think that would be strong enough?