I used to hand sew but now have problems with my hands. Now I always sew the binding on the back. I try to make my binding the same color or fabric as the backing. I cut 2 1/2" strips, folded in half and then sew the binding (1/3 of the way on the binding) to the back. I always press the binding up, then bring the binding to the front and sew (just be sure to cover your sewing line from the binding). I think the binding is the first to go and that it holds up much better being machine sewen. Tip: I always use my walking foot on binding and don't bother to pin, just be sure not to pull the binding as you sew.