I have 2 Brother embroidery machines and love them, so user friendly and no problems with them. Though not familiar with the xr1355 have read good reports. For the 1/4" seam you should be able to move the needle to the right using the stitch width feature. Draw 2 lines on paper, 1/4" apart, place under the foot with one line where the edge of your fabric sits, then move the needle till it is directly over the 2nd line.
Also the dealer who sold your sweety the machine should offer free lessons. Take them up on it and take your machine so they can help with the skipping stitches. And don't retire your Kenmore, most of us have several machines and use the lot.
Good Luck,
Gay