Design | Things You Should Never Attempt to DIY for Your Blogs Design

When it comes to blog design, there's probably more than a few things that you probably don't want to attempt to create yourself. Despite the many programs that make it super easy for anyone to become a designer, the truth is that without the right tools and skills developed over years of training and/or learning, you should probably go ahead and hire this job out.

Full Headers

Your header is the first image that a reader sees on our blog (after the post graphic that brought them there), simple and chic is a fantastic combination but a header should include more than just your blogs name. If you are planning to add in a logo, maybe some links or social media icons, you're going to want to hire this one out. 

HTML Image Mapped or Coded Graphics

Because image mapping can be really complex, it is best to let the pros handle it when you need big work done. The last thing you want to have happen is your links break or the image host has disappeared so while it is perfectly fine to design your sidebar with simple image mapping, leave the larger project to the pros.

Anything that messes with Your Blogs Template

Every blogger that I have worked with have all said that even looking at their blogs code template is a daunting task. Since I basically see The Matrix on every webpage I visit these days, it isn't a difficult thing for me to go in and hard code new gadget titles or a jump break code. But unless you're familiar with at least a little CSS , you'll want to hire out any work that involves playing in your XML file. 

One of the biggest reasons you should hire out projects you are not comfortable with or have the skill set to do is mainly to save you money. By having it done right the first time, by a reputable designer will end up saving you the cash it will take to fix it if it gets broken :) I always like my clients to learn as we go so think about finding a designer that will help you learn the process as well as create and install it so you don't have to constantly shell out cash everytime you need something done. 

Start the Discussion:

Have you ever tried to DIY your blog without any skills?

What parts of blog design/structure do you think are best hired out?

Happy Blogging!