There is a formula for cutting your binding strips to fit the width of any binding. If, for instance you want a 1/2" binding, you would multiply 1/2"x6 (I add an extra 1/4" so my fat fingers have enough fabric to work with). So, for a 1/2" binding you would cut your strips 3" wide (I would do 3 1/4"). Then set your seam allowance at 1/2" and your mitered corners SHOULD work OK. As for connecting the ends-if you want to do just a straight connection, cut the end of your binding 1/4" longer than the beginning and sew with a 1/4" seam allowance. EASY WAY TO MEASURE THAT Lay your quilt out and overlap the binding ends. Take a ruler and lay it even with the end of the starting binding and lay the ending strip over it. Cut at 1/4"