Mosquitosew girl is sooo right! That method makes handling triangles quick, easy and accurate. Don't be scared off-you will love it.

One of my favorite patterns is Jacob's ladder because it combines 4-patches with half-square triangles.

I would recommend that whatever HST you decide on, start with the square that is 1" larger than your finished HST. Mark diagonally down the center line then sew 1/4" away from that marked line in both directions. Cut on the marked line, press the HST open and trim to size. It is a little more work but they come out great.