I agree with DogHouseMom-it all depends what machine I'm using and the pattern. My Featherweights are a straight 1/4" ( I just follow the side of my foot) and they are fine everytime. When using my Bernina I use a scant. I usually use this machine for block swaps that have to be specific in size. Using a scant will give me enough extra so I can square it to the correct size.