Good templates
Not all designers are bloggers, and not all bloggers are designers. Which is why blog templates exist.
Through the years, I’ve seen all types of templates for all types of blogging software- but, being a professional designer, I’d never paid much attention to them, preferring to design my own. Until now.
Because I’m a Wordpress newbie (my other blogs are either Movable Type or TypePad), I haven’t quite learned the ins and outs of Wordpress templating. I’d be lost without all the many Wordpress themes out there.
But, yes, there are many. So many. What to do?
Stick with the default.
At the time of this writing, Wordpress installs with the Kubrick theme as its default- which is really quite an excellent template.
Movable Type’s default template is good as well, and can be quickly customised with Movalog’s Style Generator. Many people stick to these defaults, and there’s nothing wrong with that. If you want to jump right into blogging (which is really what it’s all about), this is probably the best option for you.
Go with a user-made template.
The Wordpress codex has a big list of user-made themes. Movable Type themes are a little harder to come by, but are just as numerous.
These templates usually feature “plug-and-play” installation, and are the way to go if you want a more customised look without much fuss.
Create your own template.
Want a look all your own? Learning to create your own blog template doesn’t have to be difficult- but it can be time-consuming, so you probably won’t be able to jump right into blogging right away.
It’s best if you already have some basic HTML and CSS coding skills, but even if you’re starting from scratch, the free resources you’ll find online (with the power of Google) should help you out. Be sure to check out Wordpress’ Theme Development guide or About.com’s blog templates page.
And on this site? We’re using the wonderful user-made Squible template for Wordpress.
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