template or self-made layout preference/help

[lookingahead]

When it comes to design websites, what do yall prefer to do. Use a template or come up with your own design?

I ask cause i'm having trouble coming up with a design for my website, content isn't a problem. Just trying to figure out what I want my site to look like and or how to get it to look a certain way. Any advice would be great.

 

[Phreaddee]

Your own template always.
Draw it on paper, work out the maths
Build a wireframe, add content, style
Add bells and whistles.
In that order.

 

[Eis]

Yeah, making your own template is better. Look at other websites you like the look of for inspiration, and then do what Phreaddee said. ^_^

 

[lookingahead]

Thanx guys, I never thought about starting on paper maybe that's the key that I've been missing.

noob question: maths...like pixel distance and what not?

 

[Phreaddee]

Yes, that is correct

If for instance you have a container 960px,
And you want 2 divs 1/3 + 2/3.
Margin:10px, padding:10px, border:2px,
the divs will be width:276px + width:596px