When I first started quilting I, too, had the same problem. Then a friend told me about an "unusual" solution. Measure out from your needle 1/4" then put a "cut" strip (about 1/2" wide) of Dr. Scholl's foot inserts on plate. These inserts have a sticky side and when cut and placed they are just the right height for you to be able to butt your fabric against and get a uniform 1/4". (I have been using the same piece for years and probably time to replace....lol).