What is the best way to color and highlight hair at home?

i naturally have darkest brown hair,that is almost black.i went to a salon at the end of nov.07.To have my hair cut ,colored and highlighted "crayon" red.they had to dye my hair black so the highlighting would be more intense( i guess). i have gray in my hair.a streak in the front and many strands working thier way through, so i already need a touch up.I dont have the budget to go back to the salon.Also my highlights came out very natural,,not exactly what i wanted.its more coppery than i wanted.i have colored my own hair for years,but never highlighted until the salon.So i need suggestions on how to color AND highlight myself.And yes i want to do the red highlights.

What is the best way to color and highlight hair at home?

How to Pick the Right Hair Color based on your hair color and undertone to avoid color failure

http://geebal.blogspot.com/2007/10/how-t...

How To Color Your Hair

http://geebal.blogspot.com/2007/10/how-t...

After-Care for Colored or Chemically-Treated Hair

http://geebal.blogspot.com/2007/10/after...

What is the best way to color and highlight hair at home?

There is no best way to do that... as any mistakes you make will ultimately cost you more in the long run.. the best advice anyone can give is to see a professional to get the results that will make you happy.