how do u make a banner?

well you need an image-editing program like Adobe Photoshop (PS), Jasc Paint Shop Pro (PSP), or MS Paint etc. use some brushes, stock photos, your imagination. be creative. be sure to try out the tutorials here at cb if you want to try out new things. and check in the Big Book of Resources for links to brushes/tutorials/other things for PS and PSP.

are those programs free?

You can get a free 30 day/+ trial. Then you have to buy it. MS. paint is free - if you have windows, it's already on your computer.

there are really good paint tutorials in the tutorials section .. soo you can look @ those to help you w/ your banner if you decide to use paint

I always try and use MS paint but it never works the way I want it too...I don't understand how some of you guys can make these awesome banners from the stuff they give you to work with...

I use MS. paint. I guess you just need to be expierienced, but, again, there are tutorials for Ms. paint (many good tutorials) in the tutorials section.

If you look in the right place they can be.