I would like to have a web site designed,using two existing sites
as a model.Not exactly,but reasonbly close.By that I mean all the
 same features,but layed out on the page a little differently.
 Flash,database,search, etc.The sites are instructables.com and
 makezine.com. What would the design cost(aprox.)I realize their
 can be variations between designers.

Hi

you may try http://www.dreamzsop.com/website_designing/

The pricings starts from US 99 onwards..

MIKS!  sent e-mail same day, NO response, nada

Consider designing a new site as an investment.

Generally, quality work starts from $1000-$1500.

Here is a designer I know that you can look at:
http://www.yellowhousehosting.com/services/web-design.php

Other than that, you can visit this page to learn about creating a
website from the owners perspective:
http://www.improvetheweb.com/how-to-create-your-website/