I like to square up my quilt and trim the layers to a nice uniform size, then I stitch all the way around the perimeter with a long and wide zig zag stitch and a walking foot to encase all 3 layers and keep things neat. I find my bindings go together very quickly and without annoying puckers or misalignments when I take this step, so the time is well spent.

I , too, sew a large stitch around the perimeter with a walking foot before applying the binding. After doing that, I take another look at the "squareness" situation, especially at the corners.

Thanks everyone. I think I will follow the majority and stitch around the outside before sewing the binding on. Maybe when I get better at this I will get a bit braver.

That is what is wonderful about this hobby and this board-- you can gather information and then do what works for you!

Hear- hear!. Most of the tips I pass along are things I learned right here on the QB. Wonderful:D
peace

I use the same technique as Ube Quilting. I trim after I sew the binding on the right side. I've never had a problem with the backing puckering. I also use my walking foot.
Sue

[QUOTE=ube quilting;6484528]I like to baste stitch, just outside to the right of the 1/4" seam, around my quilt before adding the binding. It is so much easier to keep everything in place and not have to worry about it pleating on the back.

This is the way I do it. it helps the backing or the top lay smooth so there are no puckers. Also I have had the backing really fold up. this may seem like more work but I think it is well worth the effort!!!

Wondering if you have learned the technique to miter the corners of your binding? google how to miter binding and it will explain a lot how to do it! good luck with your first quilt! hope you make many more!

If you feel more comfortable doing it, I would suggest that you do baste the edges of your quilt. Everyone here has done binding quite a few times. Hopefully, you have read some info about various techniques. There are so many ways of doing it. You really need to get the fold that is made in the corners as straight and accurate as possible. I have always done 2.25" cut strip double folded and hand stitched to the back. Good Luck !!

This is what I'm using as my guide, hopefully I can make the teacher proud of my attempt.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2hWQ5-ZccE