I really hope you can get your machine fixed without too much cost. If you do, the following might help you out when you begin to sew again.
Does your machine have the computerized stiches? I have a Brother CS6000i, and when I turn it on, it automatically sets the needle to the left (00 on the computer screen). To center it, I put it at 01.
However,when piecing I use the number 37 (the picture shows a stitch line to the right with a small P [for piecing]next to it). If you line your fabric up with the edge right under the right side of your J foot, you will have a perfect scant quarter inch.
My "beginning quilt class" instructor helped me figure this out. She also taught us to use "mole skin" strips to lay on your machine next to the foot to get your scant quarter inch, so on my machine I just laid it right next to the foot, and a little toward you so that you have a guide to line up your fabric as it goes to the needle. I used this method for a long time until I was comfortable just sewing without it.
Mole skin (or foot pads) can be found by the Dr. Scholl's foot pads in stores, and it comes in 4-1/4" by 3-1/4" pieces that have a sticky side. It's about 1/4" thick. You can use your rotary cutter to cut a tiny strip, (about 1/4" wide and 1-1/2" long), take the backing off and just lay it down on your 1/4 or scant 1/4" measurement. You can guide your fabric right through and have perfect seams. It can be taken off and reused over and over, and once you wear it out, just cut yourself a new piece.
I hope this makes sense! Good luck!