I think that the 1/4 inch seam really begins with the cutting.Always try to use the same rulers. One of the tricks that I like to use is to cut my fabric a little on the heavier side.I lay my fabric out[not too many layers]; then place my ruler on the fabric, the cutting line will be all the way to the edge of the fabric.It seems like the scant 1/4 inch is no longer something that I need to worry about. It was already taken care of in the cutting. Then each time that I cut; I'm using the same method over and over. My blocks come out quite nicely. It is my most favorite parts[ cutting and block making] of the quilt making process. Sure hope this also helps.