One of my straight stitch only machines (2) has a compensating foot and I use that but it is a bit bigger than a 1/4". I can use it for either machine. My needles do not move. I am going to try Bonny Hunter's method I just saw. I have tries several methods but, find the fabric will work its way under the stop eventually. It is a problem when I have to open the plate to clean under the feed dogs, I need to split it as Bonny did. It is only necessary for patterns. I make alot of quilts where the scant seam isn't necessary.
I would think after all the quilts I have made I would have it dialed in, but I don't.