Your best bet is to buy an 1/4 inch foot for your machine if you can afford one, This makes the job so much easier. Being new I wouldn't use anything but cotton material until you get some experience quilting. I had never sewed anything until 3 years ago when I found quilting. I found the 1/4 inch seam a challenge until I got my 1/4 inch foot.Practice is your best friend.
Good luck with your next project each one gets better.