Welcome Paula, from New York State! My DGM (dear Grandmother) came from Mayo, Ireland. Cot quilt? Is that a quilt for a twin size bed? You will also benefit from tutorials on u-tube...Missouri Star Quilt Company has amazing videos. Here's one on half square triangles...useful for many different blocks!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekYpJzHoW6E