I made a gathered end hammock and had it tied up with some heavy rope. It worked fine for hanging in the backyard and making a pattern for my bug net. I now want to make new rope attachments for the tree.

What method should I use to attach to the hammock gathered end? Knots reduce strength.

Any tips for splicing 1/4 poly rope without a tool? A bic pen is to large unfortunately.

Thanks
Adam