How to Create Your Own Website from Scratch

Building your own website from scratch can seem like a big challenge, but with the right guidance, it's actually much easier than you might think. Whether you want a personal blog or an online shop, this guide will help you get started.

Table of Contents

1. Choosing Your Domain Name and Hosting
2. Setting Up Your Website with a Platform
3. Designing Your Website
4. About Lion Skin

Choosing Your Domain Name and Hosting

The first step in creating a website is to choose a domain name. This is your website’s address (like www.example.com), so it should be easy to remember and relevant to what your website is about.

1. Keep it Short and Simple: A short domain name is easier for people to remember and type into their browser.

2. Make it Unique: Avoid using common or generic names that could be confused with other sites.

3. Choose the Right Extension: In Australia, a .com.au domain is great for businesses targeting the local market, while a .com domain works well internationally.

Once you’ve chosen your domain, you’ll need to pick a web hosting provider. Hosting services store your website’s files and make them accessible on the internet. Some popular options include SiteGround, Bluehost, and GoDaddy. Compare prices and features to find the right fit for your needs.

Setting Up Your Website with a Platform

After setting up your domain and hosting, it's time to choose a platform to build your website. You don’t need to be a coding expert—many platforms offer easy-to-use tools to get you started.

1. WordPress: This is the most popular platform, offering great flexibility for customisation. With many free and paid themes, you can make your website look exactly how you want.

2. Wix: Wix offers a simple drag-and-drop interface, making it very beginner-friendly. It’s perfect if you want a quick setup with minimal technical knowledge.

3. Shopify: If you plan to sell products online, Shopify is a great choice. It’s designed specifically for e-commerce and makes managing an online store easy.

Once you've picked your platform, follow their setup process to install it on your domain. Most hosting providers offer one-click installation for platforms like WordPress, making it quick and simple.

Designing Your Website

Now that your website is set up, it’s time to design it. Good design is important because it makes your site easy to use and keeps visitors interested.

1. Choose a Theme: Most platforms have pre-made themes or templates. Choose one that fits your style and purpose. For example, if you’re starting a blog, a clean, simple layout works best. For an online store, you’ll want something that highlights your products.

2. Customise Colours and Fonts: Your website’s colours and fonts should match your brand or the message you want to send. Try to stick to two or three main colours to keep it simple and professional.

3. Organise Your Content: Make sure your website is easy to navigate. Use headings, menus, and links to guide visitors through your pages. A clear, organised layout will help people find what they’re looking for quickly.

4. Mobile-Friendly Design: Many people will visit your website from their phones, so make sure your site works well on mobile devices. Most platforms have mobile-responsive themes that automatically adjust to different screen sizes.

About Lion Skin