David,
an important element (to me) in the way I execute Amateur Method B, is that I make it in two steps.
· I first staple the two panels together along the matching rounded sides and then make the single, zigzag panel joining seam (Chapter 5 of TCPJR).
· After removing all staples, I fit the batten pocket (also using staples) and do my best to make this batten pocket seam - also zigzag - land on top of the panel joining seam. This is of course to minimise the distance between the batten pocket and the sail.
I see two advantages with Method B:
· The panel joining seam gets maximum protection from sunshine and chafe.
· In case a batten pocket must be replaced, the old one can be removed simply by ripping the batten pocket seam, and a new pocket can be fitted without need for rolling up half the sail to let it pass under the sewing machine.
On all your other versions, removing a batten pocket would involve picking the sail apart, unless you bring out a scissor and just cut away the damaged pocket, before fitting a conventional sailmaker’s pocket over it. I am not sure fitting them is faster than Method B either - I haven’t tried.
Since my mission is to lure wannabes into making their own sails, I think the simplest way with the fewest or simplest work-operations is Amateur Method B.
Arne