After having problems with smooth binding, I discovered this method on the internet. I tried it. I have to say that this is my only method now: it is easy, not frustrating, not complicated, with no measuring involved. Since I have begun using it, I actually enjoy doing the binding process. This works, by the way, whether you are hand sewing a binding or machining it down. No pricey tools or templates are involved, either. This is a winner!!