Thinking about making a lot of websites..but how can i without spending so much on domains?

Hey i was considering making a bunch of smaller websites but i dont want to spend 10 dollars for every website that i make. It doesnt seem that smart to do for something that i wont spend every day working on after its finished.

How could i get these websites up without spending all my money into domains? ((I have my own hosting with hostgator, and i was considering making a blog for the first time... can i host a blog with hostgator? and who should i create the blog through (like where to get templates and widgets)))

I get ideas all the time about products that i could promote, but any advice on an easy was to do this without spending money for every single one that i find. (it really adds up in a hurry if you find 10+ products to promote! lol)

I am basically looking to host it myself so it looks more professional and so i have full control over it.

Its kind of hard to explain what i mean here but i hope you guys understand what im gettin at here. If theres any specific question you want to ask i can answer it to help clear it up.