First - if you are a new quilter, making those tiny 9 patches are going to be difficult. I would save doing the tiny blocks for when you are a bit more experienced. Second, yes you can use 1/2" seams, but they bring with it their own set of challenges. I often have my very young students use 1/2" just because it it easier for them to watch and get correct. But, it can add quite a bit of bulk on the backside. So, it would be dependent on the block. Third - IT IS YOUR QUILT! You get to decide what you want to do and how you want to do it. There will be things that you try that don't work out and you will learn not to do them. And, there will be things you try that just make things so much easier - you are the boss! Only super rule is to have fun and learn stuff.