Can people give me some tips and tricks as to making an attractive "catch your eye" banner for the side of my website? I want to make it really interesting to look at with all kinds of textures and things, but it never comes out right. any tips?

What's your website niche?

The best way to make it "catch your eye" is to make it themed towards your niche. If someone is searching for the niche you're working with, then obviously they are interested in the topic. And what better way to imprint your site name, logo, and slogan then to have it on a banner that fits their interest.

While abstract and other forms of finished products are cool, I personally think banners and advertisements work best when they are themed to fit your website/community.

Good luck.