For placemats and table runners I use single thickness for binding. I machine sew it on the front. I use 1 1/2" wide strips. I turn to the back foldingover the raw edge to the edge of the placemat, then fold again just covering the binding stitches. I pin then use a decrative stitch I stitch in the ditch from the top side. Hope this helps. I did different methods til I found a method that worked for me. There is no right or wrong.