getting started with custom templates...

[jgjg]

I am almost a total newbie to coding (I know all HTML, a little PHP)

what is the best way to get started hacking up a custom template?

I want one that is very, very simple looking and won't require fancy graphics or fancy css styles...basically like a table with 2 columns...in the side column are all the links (with only basic CSS rollover styling)

and in the wider column will be the content.

So should I start learning about SMARTY templates? I heard somebody say something about TemplateLite so I am a little confused which to use.

Also, is there some sort of guide available?...any direction as to how to do this? or must I patiently decipher everything?

Lastly...if anyone is interested in helping out, feel free to drop a quote...however I only could spend maybe $100, but keep in mind, I want it simple, simple, simple...so there won't be ANY graphic design work involved, only in translating the links to a more simple template.