If you don't have the 1/4" foot, sometimes you can use a regular foot, move the needle all the way to the right, and either the edge of the foot will be 1/4" or the first groove that marks the seam allowances will be the 1/4". Use a ruler to help you. Find the best way for you, and do it.
I used to have an old cranky machine. The needle didn't move. So I actually drew a line on the machine. Had to do it. Made that machine do what it wasn't necessarily made to do... it got crankier... But then I got a new machine, learned how to sew all over again, and now... it's wonderful.
Most importantly take your time. Practice. It'll come.