• Do you enjoy computer work, especially if it has to do with creativity and the internet? Are you talented with web layouts and graphic design material? If so, why not explore a career in web design? This guide will provide you with all the necessary information on how to become a web designer. With the proper training and experience, you will be starting an exciting new career before you know it. This guide will provide you with tips on getting started as a web designer.

• If you are an aspiring web designer, you should learn all you can about web design by:

1. Perusing websites online. Study the layouts of the sites and learn to understand their specific functions.
2. Reading web design books
3. Completing tutorials on programs focusing on web design
4. Schooling yourself in basic html code and CSS
5. Making sure you should also make sure you can work on pages in browsers such as Firefox, Internet Explorer, Netscape and Opera
6. Grasping a basic knowledge of graphic design

• You should consider purchasing a good vector graphics editor. This is a computer program that lets you interactively edit vector graphics images on a computer. Consider purchasing Adobe Illustrator or acquiring the free, open source editing program GIMP.

• Although a degree is not necessarily required, it does help when you go to find a web design job, especially if you are being hired as a full-time designer at a company. They will usually expect you to at least have a bachelor's degree, as well as some additional web design specific training. You will have more flexibility if you decide to go the freelance web design route. You can obtain degrees online, as well as attending an actual college. If you go this route, however, make sure your degree is from an accredited school, especially if you are simply receiving a web design certification. You should consider getting schooled in:

1. Web Design, with a focus on graphics and layout
2. Color theory and composition
3. Visual art or visual design

• Building a portfolio is the key to getting a decent web design job, whether you want to work full-time for a company or do freelance work on your own. You should have a portfolio that includes a variety of websites you have designed. You can include school assignments, your own website and various freelance projects. Since most companies or freelance opportunities arise due to your portfolio, you may have to volunteer to build websites for free in order to gather material for it. You can offer to build websites for non-profit organizations, your church or other small companies or online businesses. Make sure you take screen shots of your work.

• Now it is time to market your skills. This mainly applies to freelance work, but will help you with seeking a full-time job as well. Make sure you build a strong, visually dynamic website for your own work. It is imperative that you showcase your layout talents here so that future employers and clients can see what you are capable of doing. Put your portfolio on your website and post your service in applicable places on the web.

If you are talented with website design and enjoy working online from the comforts of your own home, then why not explore a career as a web designer? The above guide will provide you with all the necessary information to jump start your career as a web designer.