newbie with questions

I am new to this whole website thing. I have not downloaded the software yet until I have an idea where to start. I did get the manual.
I want to build my own website store.
I am taking an html class to learn more stuff.
My question is about templates for the store- Is the whole template created in html code?
Can I make a template in paint shop pro? Where to start?
I know that I can use the free download templates- but I want to my own thing.
Do I just alter the free templates?
In basic terms can someone explain the steps I need to accomplish to get my store online?
Download zencart, get template, upload to host etc?
Thanks, I look forward to learning more.

Read all the tutorials/FAQ links at the top of this page.

Read through the forums, especially those subjects you don't understand from the tutorials.

Install Zencart.

Read the tutorials and forums again.

Then come back with specific questions. We'll be here.

You can also, download a free template, and take a close look at it. That is what i did.
BTW what is wrong in altering existing template?

If you find a free template that's close to the look you want, there's no reason you can't modify it to suit your needs. In doing that, you can learn a ton about how to create your own template.