I use two different methods for binding. If the quilt is for show, a gift for a friend or myself I machine stitch it on to the front and hand stitch on the back. BUT if the quilt is for a child or the local nursing home then I machine stitch on the back first, fold it over to the front and machine stitch. I have a binding foot for my machine and it helps to get that front stitching very even and straight and close to the folded edge. My thinking is that utility quilts will get much heavier usage and the stitching needs to be real sturdy.