I think a 3/8" seam with a 2 1/4" strip would be too much of a seam. Try 21/2" strip, or 1/4" seam. Also, as cool as Sharon schaumber's method is, I find that's too much handling of the strip for me. But then again, I'm certainly not anywhere near her caliber, so it is what it is!

I have a question for Willfreg: very interested in your method of using fannel to make a raggedy binding..could you let us know more about it? Thank you

I, too, am a machine binder. I start with a 3" strip, folded in half, but not ironed anymore. I stitch the edges of the quilt before I bind it, just to make it easier, knowing the layers are all in place. I stitch to the back, turn it to the front and then use a decorative or straight stitch to stitch down the front.
What I like is that this gives me a nice outline stitch on the back as my binding is wider on the front. So rather than looking like I accidentally wander back and forth from the ditch, it looks like I am intentionally stitching outside the seam. Which I am!!! Smiles and hugs!

I must be the weird one - I love stitching the binding on by hand - I usually use a 2 1/4" strip - but that depends on the fabric and batting.

This is a great video--going to try on a potholder I just made :)

I think you are doing amazingly--5 quilts since August and a new sewer. I've only done 2 quilts but I cut my binding 2-1/2" and use a 1/4" seam. I've used the buttonhole stitch --machine--for the finishing.

I usually machine sew my binding on both sides, especially for kids quilts and charity quilts that get alot of use and washing. I cut my binding 2 1/4" wide and I do not press it in half. I fold it in half and apply it to the back of the quilt using a good 1/4" seam. I then fold it over to the front just past the stitching for the back and use my blind hem foot to sew it on. Works for me!! Ann

might try the flange type that is all done on machine

One of the ladies at our quilt group today said that she uses Steam A Seam 1/4" tape. She puts the binding on, then uses the Steam A Seam to seal the side that needs to be sewn down - she said she buys hers at JoAnns - it seems like it would hold it in place nicely while you machine stitch it down. Sometimes I sew mine on the front, sometimes on the back - it depends on the fabric. If I have a light front/dark back and light binding, I would want to do my hand sewing on the front because the stitches are less visable.

Not an expert but try cutting the strips 2.5 inches . It will make the world of difference.