How many of you create ALL site assets from scratch, when making a site?

It depends on the client and budget, with some I'll create all assets including icons and such and with others I will use GPL icons. Basically it all depends on the clients willingness to pay for custom stuff which will determine how much of the assets are created.

 

Previously I would always try and stress the importance of using a completely custom design (unique to them, optimized code, most flexibility/familiarity for me)

However, I am now doing more template-based sites. A couple of reasons that come to mind:

1. Client's budgets have been slashed and slashed some more (the economy, esp. in Michigan, is far from stellar!)

2. Templates have been getting better, and more and more selections

Hope that helps!

~ Jeremy