See here is where I get confused. How do you know what is a 1/4"????? If I am doing a test strip, what am I measuring against? I always figured if the pattern called for a 1/4" seam and if I was consistent by using either the foot or the guide, I would be OK - but that totally doesn't work - I somehow always end up with seams that will not match! I am so glad someone brought this subject up - I have been dying to ask......