Can't imagine doing a Judy Neimeyer pattern without my add a 1/4 ruler - have 6", 12" and 18". I think you'll be pleased that you ordered one.

I have all sizes of the Add a Quarter and Add an Eight and add three eights (for flannel) rulers and the Add Enough ruler (more like a gauge) The Add Enough was difficult for me to figure out but I'm glad I stuck with it, it really saves fabric (and cutting too small pieces) when paper piecing. http://www.addaquarter.com/products.php

I love my add a 1/4 rulers, I have two, one is the 6 inch and one is the 12 inch.

I love my add a quarter, it really doesn't cost that much and it's does a nice job. No you don't have to have it, it's your preference lol.....

I LOVE my add a quarter. I got the longer ruler. I use the Carol Doak method with the postcard taped to it. You have to see her video to see how fast and easy it makes to trim the seams and makes placement of the next piece so easy.

No, you don't need one. Many of the square up rulers have a 1/4 inch rule usually shaded darker. Use that.

no you don't however it buts up against the paper nicely (has a raised 1/4 inch lip) making it a dream to use so if you do a lot of PP it is worth the investment IMHO.

I wouldn't paper piece without my rulers...both the 1/8" and the 1/4". I have a 4"x6" piece of plexiglass that I use to butt the ruler against and they are all indispensible to me.
I have also purchased a foot long 1/4" ruler for a larger project that is on my future schedule.

It is well worth the money a great help to beginners. I often teach paper piecing and never had a student regret buying the ruler there are two sizes the longer one can be used with anysize block.
Good Luck

I am with you !!!! It is just really handy, never slips, and always exact ! Have actually used it for other than paper piecing also....but that is another topic.