width od binding strips depends on the look i want for the binding on finished quilt. i machine stitch to front using 1/4" seam & hand stitch to back using hidden stitch. i will sometimes fill areas where batt is thin with small scraps of batt. gives even fullness all around.
and i sew down miters with hidden stitch front & back.
and i don't enter into shows ..i was just taught that finish should be as best i can do it.
and i have severe arthritis in both hands and wrists and fingers ..and carple tunnel for many years. but i have loved sewing since early childhood & it will take a lot to make me stop.