Dont give up...i know it is frustrating. if there is a local quilt shop in your area, maybe you could bring your machine in,and ask for help? i am sure it is just a matter of moving your needle either to the left or right a few clicks. (even if you have the 1/4" foot..it doesn't mean you have a 1/4" seam.)
i so wish i could just gather us all together and help you...i was lucky,when i bought my machine, it came with free lessons, and i took a beginners class at joanns..learned how to press,cut,read a pattern and find my 1/4" for MY machine. so i missed some of the frustrating issues that come with being a beginner...