Background Selection

There are virtually countless backgrounds from which to choose.  And what hasn't been made yet, can be made!  

Some basic rules of thumb when selecting your background:

• Don't get one that's too busy or highly patterned.  Most people tend to forget that backgrounds should be just that: background! While they might look spiffy or snazzy as drapes or sofa upholstery, it's really difficult to read text on a pattern. Another common error is keeping the background too dark. Again, a background should be a subtle enhancement and add to the feel of the site rather than overwhelm the site and scream "LOOK AT THIS COOL DESIGN IN THE BACKGROUND!"
  

• If you find one you like, make sure it's understated and mellow in contrast.  Subtle is the key to background use.
  

• Make sure you can stay within the unspoken confines of the specially-designed background.  Many times, people will choose a background in the shape of an inverted "L."  There is nothing wrong with this background choice so long as you're able to keep your content confined to the space that falls directly below the overhang portion at the top of the page.