Tuesday's Tip - For starters... (a guide to help you start designing)

I've had a couple questions recently about suggestions for starting designers. So I came up with a short list of what one would need to start designing their own blog. =)

1}

a test blog

This is vital. Create a test blog that only you have access to. Try out your creative ideas without wrecking your current design. Blogger doesn't have a limit on how many blogs you can make so use it.

2}

an image manipulation program

This is important. Create beautiful images with programs such as photoshop or gimp. (plus, gimp is free!)

3}

a file host

Extremely important. Upload images and script files for your designs. I suggest imgur for photos and bravehost for files. They both offer free services.

4}

fonts

Fonts are one way to make your text unique and stand out. I suggest free font sites such as dafont, fontsy, kevin&amanda, or you can always google for a specific font. A suggestion: keep the main font something simple and easy to read. ;)

5}

digital scrapbook kits

Now these aren't absolutely necessary, but do help in creating an attractive design. Some sites I recommend for free kits:
.summertime designs
.shabby princess
.computer scrapbooking

(go here to enter in a giveaway for a digital scrapbooking kit! open from now until the 26th of December)

6}

multiple browsers/computers

Websites look different depending on the browser and computer one uses. Check your design in several different major browsers to make sure there are no problems! I use:
.chrome
.firefox
.internet explorer

7}

creativity

You can have all the resources at hand but without creativity, your designs will never be beautiful. So let your imaginations soar!

Any questions or suggestions? --let me know!