Can someone explain the new block blockstates& how to

Can someone explain the nw block blockstates and how to use it for customers stairs, torches and Redstone properly please and thank you .

I want to make my custom stairs block and I know I need to make 4 variants for each color, but want to do it properly

I also eventually want to make my own custom torch and Redstone block

Without it adding a new block but like a variant type deal, i:e in code you set block x x x [direction:west] like in main game.

Hope this is understandable. 

I know I can just make a new block element with procedure but figured the new way be better