As EasyPeezy suggests, I use a quarter inch foot and move my needle a bit to give me that scant quarter inch.
However, what I find that helps the most is to nest closed seam allowances, using a glue stick to make sure they stay in place. Press. Then stitch baste about a half inch before and after those crossed seam allowances. I check to make sure they're good, then permanent stitch. If the basting stitches don't show, I don't take them out. It does take time, but for me it's actually a shortcut, and I'm happier with the results.