I used to bind my quilts using straight cut fabric on each side. Now that I've found the Missouri Star Bias ruler, I use bias binding every time. If you haven't seen this ruler, it's a great tool for new quilters. You can see a video here on how to use it:
http://www.missouriquiltco.com/simpl...ty-studio.html
The binding tool available on this site is also great. You can see the video here:
http://www.missouriquiltco.com/notio...ducts-inc.html
I don't have any association with Missouri Star, I just think these are great tools to help you make a professional looking binding even if you are a new quilter.