Hi Madame, I even go so far as to sew the binding by machine. I apply to the back and bring around to the front and stitch by machine. The hand sewing is much nicer but if I had to stitch the binding by hand I would not finish the quilt. So-o I give up a little but FINISHED is important too. I love the work but am not good at hand stitching and don't enjoy it either. Enjoy your day