Hmmm, I have built 2 weights with single foots no problem. I use masking tape but I use scissors to cut very thin sections to hold the guides in place. It has always worked for me.

I have heard others use the "stretchy string" as well and like it - I just never had the need so haven't tried it.

I like both single foot and snake and believe both work very well. I just like the single foot that holds the line away from the blank (Hopkins & Holloway or Recoil not Pac Bay). My usual preference is the single foot.