I went thru the same process of making my own strap. In the end I bought the Black Rapid screw for the Manfrotto quick release because it is a very critical failure point and hard to make with the tools I have.
I bought a BENRO TRA069 Travel Angel because it fits in a carry on bag and clips on to my Lowepro SlingShot 200. I replaced the included ball head with a Manfrotto ball head because I wanted to keep using their quick releases. What kind of head works for you is a matter of taste.