I do. I do backend stuff as well.
It's less about learning specific programs and more about learning to write the code. For design, you'll need to know: HTML, CSS, and some Javascript... and I'd recommend you learn them in that order.
I like Dreamweaver, but as I only use the code editor and DW is expensive, I don't use it anymore. I use, to varying degrees, Netbeans, Visual Studio, Expression Web, Visual Web Developer Express... all of which have a code editor (IMO) as good as dreamweaver.
Visual Web Developer Express is free. The MS Expression tools are geared towards designers and you might be able to get them for free as well (see dreamspark.com).
oh, and you should probably learn a bit of Photoshop or some graphics program (Paint Shop Pro, Paint.NET, etc.)... at the very least, you'll need to crop and resize stuff a lot.
Would be happy to help with any questions you may have
@shredman if you ever need a coder or designer, drop me a line and I'll link to my resume & portfolio