For hand piecing, I start and end 1/4" from the edge. I backstitch at each edge, but do not cut the thread before moving on to the next piece; I just backstitch to secure the next edge and keep going. Works great!
I'll have to check out Jinny Beyer's website. I learned how to hand piece by watching one of her videos years ago (borrowed from the library). Before that, I didn't have a clue......