How to Sew Full Batten Pockets on a Mainsail

In this how-to video, we’re going to show you how to install full batten pockets on a mainsail. Full battens are battens that run from leech to luff on a mainsail. This procedure involves using a hook-and-loop locking system with a webbing tensioning device to securely hold the batten in place. This method provides optimal tensioning adjustments. All of the Sailrite^® Sail Kits with full battens include all the materials needed to build this type of batten.

When you order a sail kit from Sailrite, the sail comes fully computer plotted for your ease and convenience. This means all lines, seam lines and batten pocket locations are marked on the sailcloth. You’ll need to mark on the sailcloth the width of the batten pocket based on the width of your Dacron tape. Once you have the pocket placement lines drawn, then cut the Dacron tape the length needed for the pocket.

In this video, we’re sewing the batten pockets using the Sailrite^® Professional 4-Point Sewing Machine. We’re sewing 4-point zigzag stitches for our batten pockets, but if you do not have a 4-point zigzag machine that’s fine. A standard 2-point zigzag machine, such as the Sailrite^® Ultrafeed^® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine, will also get the job done. In fact, you can do all your sail construction and sail sewing repairs using the Ultrafeed LSZ. It’s a fantastic portable, heavy duty sewing machine that you can take aboard your sailboat for repairs and sewing projects wherever you are.

We’re using hook-and-loop tape — also known as Velcro — and webbing in the construction of our batten pockets. Watch the video for the full tutorial of how to construct and install full batten pockets on your mainsail.