Never used a layout before? Don't worry about it! We all start small. Here's some extra information.
Contents of the download?
Downloads are in zip folders, the contents of
which need to be unzipped (ask an adult for help if you need it) before
they can be used. They may contain any/all of the following file types,
based on the requirements of the layout itself:
> index.htm - webpage that you'll find on the internet. You
add your content to this file. Open with a browser program (such as
Internet Explorer, Firefox, Opera), or an editing program (such as
Microsoft Frontpage), or a simple text editor (such as notepad).
> folders - organize the different file types. The links
from the web pages to the files in these folders will be broken if you
change the file/ folder names or move the files around in them, so don't
do it if you don't know what you're doing!
> README.txt - The only file you can harmlessly delete.
These are special instructions for the layout and copyright information.
I urge you to read this before you delete it; the information can be
useful.
> filename.jpg, .gif, .png, .tif - Image files. They serve
as backgrounds, header images, etc for your site. Don't delete these
files, change their names, or move them around between folders. If you
do this your webpage will not work!
> filename.css - Cascading style sheet. If the download
contains this file, your webpages will use it as a universal way to
define fonts, backgrounds, borders, etc. Same as images--do not delete
or modify the filename or the webpages won't work. These are uber cool
files, so if your layout has one, use it!
What are these layouts?
These layouts are templates, a common design to start from. All the
downloads contain only a single blank webpage (.htm), that has been
designed for you to customize. It's not my job to make your entire
websites for you, but I've given you a great place to start. Edit the
parts on the webpage that you want to, then make copies of it and link
them to each other. And Voila! Instant website. Of course, this should
involve hours of frustrating work You can't make a website without that,
nor can you learn HTML without devoting a significant amount of time to
it.
So what should I do once I've downloaded it?
Make a folder on your desktop. Call it
"website", or "Warriors", or whatever you want. Put the contents of the
download folder into it. Then edit the webpage to your heart's content.
Build your website offline in this folder--it's way easier than messing
with it online. Then upload it.
How do I upload it?
You need space to host your website online.
I'd recommend making an account with freewebs.com. They give you a
choice as to whether you use a pre-made layout or a standard upload of
your own webpages. Don't use a pre-made! It'll screw up your own layout
when you upload it. Then just upload your files in the correct folders.
Help!
Email me at
admin@acaciatree.net.
I use Windows Live Messenger:
silver_kitten@hotmail.com. I do not
answer emails from this address; only IMs.
I occasionally use AIM: omgitssoozin.