I started out creating web pages with Arachnophilia! (Free) It's limited features are sufficient for beginners and it is less complicated to use than the others mentioned here.

For my graphics, I use Paint Shop Pro. I tried trial versions of couple of different programs and I chose this one – hands down! It is a GREAT program that will do just about anything you could ever want. There are hundreds of web sites with tutorials to make some wonderful graphics and many user groups to help you learn it. Watch out! it can be addicting!

I tried several of the lower cost greeting card programs before finding one that had all the features I wanted. I am now a satisfied user of Print Master Platinum. Besides greeting cards, you can make banners, business cards, brochures, newsletters, labels and more. It does have a feature that lets you create web pages, but it is very limited!