I also sew it on the back and use a decorative stitch on the front. My favorite is a curvy line with a small leaf on every other curve. Also, I like to use a variegated thread just to add a little something to the binding. When teaching, I will explain the various methods (including hand sewing the backside) but usually a newbie needs to get it finished so we sew it on and I have them do a long zigzag for the front. This way it doesn't matter if it isn't completely straight. I will point out the 'challenged' spots and explain that they will get better with practice. I find this helps them with their newbie imperfections and keeps them excited about going on.