I've always used steam a seam for my bindings. I sew it down on back, then use the steam a seam on the front, then stitch it down on front. It lines right up with the back and I think it looks really nice and it's not stiff or gummy.
Note: when pressing down the front, I make it stay just right up to the stitch line from the back so there's no over or under lapping.
I think hand stitched bindings look wonderful, but I can't stand hand stitching so this is the best alternative for me.