[Tony G]

I'm afraid you don't see the reason why people spend those large sums of money for skins. As well as that they don't know the template system and how to make images, many don't have the time to learn. Why do people pay to get their lawn mowed when they can do it themselves? Because they don't have the time or equipment. Why do people pay for people to get their houses cleaned? Because they don't want to do it themselves.

It's not that "outrageous" to people in these positions.

But you're right, paying that sum of money is not for everyone. If you're willing to learn the template system and image programs like photoshop, then the best option is to do it yourself. Simple things like learning to change colours doesn't take long to do and is easy to navigate around, which is what I suggest as a start point. ^^