Have you ever looked at a sleek, engaging website and thought—how do people actually learn to build that?
The truth is, becoming a web designer isn’t locked behind a university degree. It’s about skills, mindset, and practice. At Kraken Dev Co, we see web design as a craft: equal parts technical precision and creative decision-making. If you’re thinking about starting a career in web design, this blog will give you the roadmap—practical, compassionate, and clear.
Understanding What Web Design Really Means
Web design is not just about making things “look nice.” It’s about shaping how users experience a website. A good designer balances creativity with usability, ensuring that every interaction is purposeful.
A web designer’s work typically includes:
- Structuring layouts and navigation flows.
- Designing with typography, colour theory, and imagery.
- Building responsive designs that adapt across devices.
- Adding interactive elements that encourage actions—like purchases or sign-ups.
- Testing across browsers and devices.
- Collaborating with developers and marketers.
Some designers focus on UI (user interface), others lean into UX (user experience), and some blend in front-end development. All roads point to one goal: making websites usable, engaging, and accessible.
Step 1: Choose a Platform to Start With
If you try to learn every platform at once, you’ll burn out. Start with one.
- WordPress – The go-to for blogs and content-heavy sites.
- Squarespace – Favourites among creatives and small businesses.
- Wix / Showit – Drag-and-drop simplicity.
- Webflow – Popular for those who want design freedom with light coding.
Your choice should align with your target clients.
Step 2: Learn That Platform Inside Out
Don’t skim the surface. Get to know the tools properly. You’ll need to handle:
- Structuring pages and menus.
- Styling content with themes or custom settings.
- Setting up SEO basics.
- Embedding forms, media, or integrations.
- Managing site speed and backups.
Online courses, tutorials, and practice projects are your allies here.
Step 3: Master Core Web Design Principles
The tools don’t matter if the design feels off. Strong designers understand:
- Navigation: Clear, logical menus.
- Visual hierarchy: Guiding the eye with size, spacing, and colour.
- Typography: Fonts that are readable and consistent across devices.
- Accessibility: Designs usable for everyone, including those with impairments.
- Performance: Fast load speeds and smooth user interactions.
Clients hire designers who create sites that work—not just ones that look good.
Step 4: Start Building Projects for Your Portfolio
Your portfolio is your career currency. Employers and clients want proof of your skill, not just claims. Start with:
- A personal homepage showcasing your style.
- Concept sites for fictional businesses.
- Redesigns of outdated websites.
- Volunteer work for charities or community projects.
Document each project: the problem, your design choices, and the results.
Step 5: Finding Your First Clients
Getting that first paid project can feel intimidating. Some strategies that work:
- Pair design with another service you offer—copywriting, photography, branding.
- Try freelance marketplaces. They’re competitive, but they help you start.
- Reach out directly to small businesses with outdated websites.
- Network on LinkedIn, Instagram, and community forums.
Start with smaller packages. It lowers risk for clients and helps you build momentum.
Step 6: Build Technical Foundations
Even if you focus on design, some coding knowledge makes you far more effective. Learn:
- HTML – Structure of web pages.
- CSS – Styling and layout.
- JavaScript (basics) – Interactivity.
- Git/GitHub – Version control.
- Design software – Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch.
This foundation means you can customise templates, troubleshoot issues, and communicate well with developers.
Step 7: Consider Certifications (Optional)
You don’t need certificates to land clients, but they can help when applying to agencies or larger organisations. Examples include:
- Adobe Certified Professional (Photoshop, Dreamweaver).
- Google UX Design Certificate.
- Web Design Specialisations on platforms like Coursera.
These validate your skills and show commitment to growth.
Step 8: Build and Maintain a Portfolio Website
Think of your portfolio site as your digital shopfront. Include:
- Homepage, About, and Contact pages.
- 3–6 strong projects with clear write-ups.
- A list of services you offer.
- Testimonials (when you have them).
- A call-to-action for enquiries.
Keep it polished and updated.
Step 9: Strengthen Core Professional Skills
Success isn’t just about technical ability. The best web designers excel in soft skills too:
- Communication: Clear updates and expectation-setting with clients.
- Organisation: Using tools like Notion or Trello.
- Time management: Balancing multiple projects and deadlines.
- Collaboration: Working with developers, marketers, and stakeholders.
These reduce misunderstandings and help you build long-term partnerships.
Step 10: Define Your Career Path
Web design can lead you in different directions:
- Freelance: Flexibility and variety, but you’ll handle sales and admin.
- Agency: Team environment, exposure to diverse projects.
- In-house: Stability and focus, working on one brand’s web presence.
In the UK, entry salaries range between £25,000–£35,000, with senior designers earning £60,000+. Freelancers can exceed this by specialising in areas like e-commerce or UX.
Step 11: Commit to Continuous Learning
The web is always changing. Stay competitive by:
- Following design blogs and newsletters.
- Tracking updates on platforms like WordPress or Webflow.
- Reworking older projects with updated methods.
- Expanding into new areas like ecommerce optimisation or accessibility.
Consistency is what separates designers who stay relevant from those who fade out.
FAQs About Becoming a Web Designer
Do I need a degree?
No. Many successful designers are self-taught. Your portfolio matters most.
How long does it take to get job-ready?
6–12 months of focused work can get you there.
Which coding languages should I learn first?
Start with HTML and CSS, then move on to JavaScript basics.
Which tools should I use?
Figma or Adobe XD for design; WordPress or Webflow for building.
How do I find clients?
Start with your personal network or small businesses. Offer affordable starter packages.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a degree or years of formal study to become a web designer. What you need is structured practice, a portfolio that proves your skill, and the discipline to keep learning.
At Kraken Dev Co, we believe web design is about solving real business problems with clarity and creativity. If you stay consistent—picking a platform, learning the fundamentals, and building projects—you can build a rewarding career in this space.
Your first project might feel daunting. But every designer you admire started with one page, one client, one decision to begin.
