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This isn't really specifically related to t-shirts, but I am going to post it on this forum, because it is better than most.
I have been into web programming for a few years now, and am just now getting into it very seriously. My problem is... I have no concept of design. I want to make visually stunning websites and t-shirts.
I am planning on taking a college course or two on this within the next few quarters, but I don't want to wait. I have bought a few graphic design books, but most of them suck. I have Photoshop CS3 and am relatively familiar with it. Does anyone have suggestions on how to get started? I want to know why things look good, and acquire the specific skill sets to make them happen.
Most web design classes will probably aim to teach you how to develop sites for corporations, which are more conservative in their look and layout. When I took some web courses a few years ago (got a bachelors in CIS) it was all aimed towards "usability" and ease of navigation/easy readability, etc. Most of the web technology is still able to be accessed by you via View Source, so it's probably best to find a site that makes you say "Wow" and look at its source to see how it was made. Lot of newer sites are switching to full Flash designs, so you may need to look into getting a book on Flash and the appropriate software.
Thanks for the response, Joe. I have a majority of the code down pat, as I have taught myself most of it. It's just the actual art portion that I am not good at.
You're on the right track with books and classes. If you have the code down then you want to work on the aesthetic end, the design side. Look into taking a design fundamentals class. A typography class is also going to be essential. Also take an art class, something comprehensive, to learn compositional principles and basic color. A color theory class wont hurt either.
Classes are awesome though because you have instruction, projects, and critiques from your peers.
In addition, or alternately, you can look for books on all of those subjects. "A History of Graphic Design" by Phillip Meggs is an excellent addition to any library and will give you a solid over view of various styles over the years. Subscribing to a design publication will help as well. I subscribe to Communication Arts. Obviously you don't want to limit your studies to only web work, at this point you are studying design, inclusive of all media.
Get the basic principles of design, composition and color down and don't deviate from them in the beginning. It helps to know the rules inside and out before you start breaking them.
Also, pick a style you really like and try to execute your own designs using that style. For example, when I first started I was a big fan of constructivism and most of my work at the time reflected that. Find an existing site, or printed piece, and redesign it using your favorite style. Find an existing piece that you think could have been better and make it better.
Things like this will help you to learn.
As you learn begin to observe everything around you, not just web sites, but signs, logos, posters, decals on trucks, ask yourself does it work and why. Just a warning though, you'll eventually start looking at the world differently. You'll be critiquing everything you see sub-consciously. Instead of reading a sign you'll find yourself thinking things like "oh my god, they used comic sans..... and a bevel, how lame...."
Good luck and have fun!
Oh, ps. You might check out this forum: forum.howdesign.com
Design HELP! 
