I think that when tape, like masking tape, is used and then left on and the machine put away in an attic, or hot closet or such, that tape bakes on and makes an impossible mess on any machine, but for a machine you are going to use all the time, I see not reason not to use blue painter's tape, or moleskin gives a little edge too for the fabric to ride against. Also, some time ago Jan from VA suggested getting small pads of Post-it notes, and using one at the 1/4" place and then using a strong rubber band like is around asparagus to hold the little pad in place.