You should always check your 1/4" allowance whenever you start to sew. Computerized machines sometimes default to factory settings even if you set an accurate 1/4" the last time you used it. And yes you can adjust the needle to be an accurate 1/4". I have a Janome and I use a different needle setting for my regular 1/4" foot than I use for my 1/4" walking (accufeed) foot.