After looking at various "Free website designers" I've come to the conclusion that if you want something done right you have to do it yourself. I would like people who have worked with the web or who are just generally knowledgeable to share their experiences with me.

So here's the deal:

I want to make my own site

I have found a somewhat decent host, but am always on the look out for better ones

I have a base in HTML and CSS and am in the process of learning PHP for the web.

I don't care how long it takes, I'm in no hurry as long as it gets done

I'm not scared by crazy weird tech things

That should be about it! So please Evolution enlighten me!

The way I go about it is to first create my entire website interface in Photoshop, then using the slice tool define the various portions of the website, then export it for the web. Photoshop automatically separates, optimizes and arranges the interface into a table within a HTML file.

From there I edit the HTML file in Dreamweaver, adding content, hyperlinks, etc.

Never had to work with web hosts so your on your own there.

Dreamweaver is the devil. Use Homesite and actually learn HTML :P

Adobe bought Macromedia who bought Allaire (Allaire, the makers of HomeSite), so get Adobe Dreamweaver MX.

The first time you run it you can choose between 2 (3 actually) workspaces: Dreamweaver MX workspace or Dreamweaver 4 workspace. Choose DW4 workspace and click on HomeSite-style workspace/layout.

I am well aware of the relationship between Allaire, Adobe and Macromedia (Internet Marketing Consultant by trade :P) and I still say buy Homesite.

It is not a WYSIWYG editor, it is basically a text editor given a gui that is perfect for writing webpages in.

The problem with WYSIWYG editors is that the often input a lot of extraneous code (code should be clean damnit!) and also prevent people from learning the fundamentals that good websites are developed from.

Now if you already know how to code then something like Dreamweaver can be a valuable time saver, only requiring you to get your hands dirty to clean up the code and ensure true cross browser compatability. But if you are beginning they teach really bad habits that shit on the really important stuff such as adhering to W3C standards.

*edit*

Go away... all of you. :P

Wrong thread dude. :lol:

Yeah :lol:

But anyway, I agree with you, ElPresidente, with what you said about the WYSIWYG editors. Very true. I just thought you didn't know about the merger/acquisition :D Sorry, man :D

Just to add to this post :P I started with Notepad, then EditPad, then Homesite (to save time), then on to DW :D

Woops! :P

Well... it is late damnit. :D

Well...
What is your website for?
Kind of depends when wanting to look for hosts and then also time in which you spend in putting into it.
I'm currently running 2 website projects, my HS Newspaper and my Gaming Forum (GameFanatic)

If you maybe want some more help, look at the signature, register, e-mail me, whatever... I'm always happy to help new designers and such :)