I start and end all my seams with a small scrap (sleveges are great for this). This way your crooked seams are on scrap not on your piecing. I also find using a straight stitch only plate works great! I always sew with this plate when doing straight stitching. You can even move your needle a space or two if necessary for that perfect scant !/4 inch. Test this first! You can get this plate from your sewing machine dealer. Wishing you great beggining and endings!
Connie