"Portfolio" of what? Fabric designs? Digital images? Photographs?
There are so many examples out there. View>Source Code to see how they are done.
Do you want to roll over thumbs to see bigger images? Do you want some JavaScript slide show?
If you have a "bunch of stuff," you might do well to break it down into different categories. That way, yo can plan links to different pages/sections. Thinking through the concept of a Web site is toughest part. Consider who your audience will be.
Dreamweaver is a very helpful editing tool. Yes, work in code side of SPLIT view. I use it in school lab so cost is not a factor for me.
Post your code or link to site if it is online.