I have the 'scant 1/4' setting on my machine and use it exclusively for piecing. I bought a 1/4" foot with guide at one point and it measured actually larger than 1/4". Took that puppy back to the store. As others have said, sew a few test strips as measure. The key with measuring is to use the same ruler throughout a project. Not all rulers are created equal!

I have a Brother and I bought the 1/4" foot with a metal guide on it that I use all the time for piecing. I do have to save my settings before turning off my machine or I have to fiddle with the needle position each time it's turned on. Love my quarter inch foot. And yes, I did measure and does measure 1/4",

I have 2 mechanical Brother machines. One 1 the 1/4 inch foot is very accurate and I can use it's edge as a guide. The other is not even close! It's so called 1/4 inch foot is way too wide. I have to remind myself when I switch from machine to machine what I am supposed to be using as a guide.

I've never used a Brother with a computerized brain so I can't speak to that.

Thank you. My brother is coming by post this week - so I will be able to put all this wonderful advice into action.