Which background and layout should I use?

[srac]

All comments and suggestions are welcome.

I decided to redesign my site. I created a new background, and am now unsure which I like better, the old one or the new one. I liked the idea that the visitors would read the text as if on an ancient scroll. The other one my be more eye appealing though. I wanted some opinions on which one I should use.

Also, which layout should I use? Layout B eliminates the site map link, since all navigation links are on the side. It is also the topics page in layout A. I didn't know if the site was self explanatory, or if a welcome message would be more appropriate.

Web layout A and background A - http://www.bibletopicskjv.com/
Web layout B and background B - http://www.bibletopicskjv.com/test.shtml

Let me know what you like and dislike. If I should intermix the layouts somehow. What should I add, get rid of, or change that would make the home page better.

If you want to envision start page B with an ad, it would be a small banner right below the title. Unless there are better ideas.

[Lhlalyam]

I like the option B. This one will be good with abit more re-working.

Yes... an introduction in the site will make it feel like it is presented by a human.

Lhlalyam

[live-cms_com]

I prefer option 1, option 2's background is too intense.

Although, really I'd recommend a free template over the two options.

[vasildb]

Option one is better i think.

[srac]

Lhlalyam,

You like option B for both background and layout?

Would it be better to put a small welcome message above the topics list? Or have the welcome message, and a link to the topics under the welcome message?

[Lhlalyam]

Hello again.

I think live-cms_com made a good point about searching for a free template. Your focus seems to be very traditional. I think that if did a quick search in the Freebies section of this site or the Templates section, you would find a free template that would satisfy yourself and everyone that visits it.

The two templates do seem abit dark and sad. I think uplifting it with some extra colors would be good.

Lhlalyam

[srac]

Ok, I do tend to be a bit more traditional.

Kaediem did make this background for me. I thought the middle scroll was a little too light, but maybe it is just right. Let me know what you think.

http://www.kaediem.com/bibletopics/

[Lhlalyam]

I hope you don't mind. I did a quick search for some free templates that are offered throughtout this forum.

This link (http://forums.digitalpoint.com/showthread.php?t=468595&highlight=free+template) has a few free templates displayed
This link (http://www.theme-finder.net/) offers both free and for sale templates

Have a look at these and see if any get your attention.

Lhlalyam

[srac]

Lhlalyam, sorry I didn't really like any of the templates. The templates on the one both for free and sale, didn't seem to have much if any variety at all. I would like something different. I believe I'll stick with one of the three layouts I already have listed with the last one being in the post above yours.