If you’ve been wanting to start a web design business but have no idea what tools to use or where to even begin, you’re in the right place.
When I first started, I wasted so much time trying to figure out which programs were worth learning, which templates were actually helpful, and which tools would make my life easier instead of harder.
So to save you the same headaches, I put together a free Web Design Starter Kit that includes all the tools, templates, and resources I wish I’d had when I was starting out.
You can grab it here:
👉 Get the Free Web Design Starter Kit + 3-Step Action Plan
What’s inside the Starter Kit
This isn’t one of those overwhelming 50-page PDFs you’ll never open again. It’s short, clear, and actually useful. Inside, you’ll find:
✅ The exact tools I use to design websites, create mockups, and manage clients
✅ Template recommendations for building your own site and portfolio fast
✅ A simple checklist that walks you through what to do first (and what you can skip)
✅ Bonus: My free video training on how to start your web design business with zero experience
It’s everything you need to stop “researching” and start doing.
The tools I recommend for beginners
If you’re new, you don’t need fancy or expensive software. You just need the essentials that help you get your first few projects done right.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Showit: The easiest drag-and-drop web design platform (no code needed).
- Canva: Perfect for creating graphics, branding elements, and mood boards.
- Google Drive or Notion: To keep client notes, content, and feedback organized.
- Loom: For sending friendly video walkthroughs to clients — it’s a total game changer for communication.
- Zoom or Voxer: To stay in touch during projects without endless email threads.
That’s it. You don’t need 12 subscriptions or complex workflows. Just a few solid tools to get things moving.
Templates that make your life easier
Starting from scratch takes forever, which is why I always recommend working from templates — especially when you’re new.
Templates help you:
- Learn faster by studying pre-built layouts
- Launch your own site quickly
- Build a polished portfolio even before you’ve had clients
You can check out my ready-made Showit website templates and Canva kits over at Superhero Design. They’re the same templates I use and teach from — designed to look custom and book clients without the custom price tag.
The web design checklist you’ll actually use
When you’re starting out, it’s easy to get stuck in the details — color palettes, fonts, logos, tiny tweaks.
This checklist keeps you focused on what matters most:
- Pick your platform (I recommend Showit)
- Build your first mock project or personal website
- Create your Starter Portfolio (2–3 projects max)
- Set up a simple way for clients to contact you
- Start sharing your work consistently
That’s it. You don’t need a giant marketing plan or 20 case studies. Just a few solid examples of your work and the confidence to put yourself out there.
Grab your free Starter Kit + training
If you want to start your web design business but need a clear roadmap, grab my free training and Starter Kit here:
🎓 Start Your Web Design Business with Zero Experience
You’ll get:
✅ My proven 3-step plan to start your web design business
✅ A complete checklist and tool list
✅ A free Web Design Starter Kit to help you take action today
You don’t need to be a “tech person.” You don’t need design school. You just need a plan — and this is it.
Melissa Lunt is the founder of Superhero Design, a template shop specializing in high-converting Showit website templates for coaches, photographers, and creative entrepreneurs. With over 10 years of experience designing brands and websites, she helps business owners launch beautiful, strategic sites without the designer price tag or tech stress. Melissa is passionate about creating handcrafted templates that don’t just look custom—they actually book clients. When she’s not designing, you’ll find her drinking coffee, spending time with family and exploring the outdoors.
Explore Showit templates and launch resources at superherodesign.co.
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