Tammy - I have this machine and love it. I use it a lot more than my newer, more expensive Bernina. To move your needle to the left or right, select Program 1 (use the second button from the left to do this - hit it once and the display above will show a one). The needle will shift to the far left. The stitch width display will read 9. Then, using the + part of the stitch width button, keep pushing it and the width will decrease. It will go down to one, then show a blank, then start with a 1 again (this time to the right). By setting at the right hand 1, you will have a seam that is just shy of 1/4". I find there is just enough room that I can use this setting with the straight stitch plate and the 1/4 inch foot. I hope this is clear - not easy to describe this way.