Another way is when you are making your blanks to carve out a section and add a ball bearing. You get both variable weight for casting and a rattle at the same time!
I use the trilene knot for terminal tackle. To join braid to mono backing, alberto or double uni knot. Braid to shock, alberto or if I have the time and am targetting big lunkers, FG knot. Word of advice, practice and know a few knots well (i mean well enough to tie in the dark with minimal light) rather than knowing a lot of knots but tying them weak.
Also, practice your knots and always lubricate. Nothing worse than having a big one and your knot fails. Arbor knot for spooling the line, modified alberto for braid to leader, palomar or trilene for terminal.