PLEASE HELP! SIMPLE QUESTION!

hint, both of those items will slow down page loading and cause bidders to click off and move on

I would just stick to using Auctiva's templates - they usually don't slow down page loading times to a noticeable degree. The more you add, the longer the loading times and the more intimidated a potential bidder/buyer may become (just as the user before me said).

Lynne,
Nice store. I do agree with 3-bs that glitter and custom cursors can be aggravating, especially the later. As far as the backgound goes, you might want to check out:
http://www.jackiemccutcheon.com/mixnmatch/
This tool will generate some html code you may be able to use. Just select three different glitter backgrounds for a start and view the result and code. I am not sure if it will work through Auctiva or eBay, eventhough Jackie says it will on auctions. Using only a tiny background around your listing would be my choice if it were my store, but that's just my opinion.

Good pictures of items, well thoughtout listings, and simplicty of use followed by good after sales service, i.e. communications, packaging and fast turn around will sell more items than flashy listings.

Folks,
She, just assuming, has excellent feedback, great pictures, etc, etc.
Not to mention a sense of humor in her sig, Lynne xx.
Way more than me.
A tiny graphic takes no time to load.