I hand stitch the binding if it's a quilt that I need more time with and it's a labor of love! I did use the hand method for several years until I decided that the individual who was receiving the quilt (considering the investment of time, money, etc.) would know the difference. I've only entered one quilt show and probably will never enter another. My goal is to quilt for the enjoyment I receive, etc., not to be judged. I'm my own worse/best judge. My hat is off to those who do enter the shows.