Most of the instructions included here are for vector programs, but many other articles, as mentioned earlier, cover what we need for this technique with raster programs. Do not confuse these with the heavily ornate sets available for personal home pages.
Light use is the key to using design elements.
There is an old saying in the fashion world which refers to accessory use, but applies wonderfully well to graphic design. Wise words for professional style. Truer words were never spoken. Splash page design at the top and the resulting elements, guaranteeing consistency through the site. My own site is an example of this.