Do PSP and Xara X compliment each other well?

I read that although PhotoShop is the 'standard' industry program, that PSP is a good place to start (also since PhotoShop is far too expensive for me) and I used to have PSP7 and have some experience with it, too.

Because I am thinking of getting a Vector program, paint/photo program and a 3D one and so far I am thinking of getting Xara, PSP and then downloading Blender which is free right? http://www.talkgraphics.com/images/smilies/confused.gif Would these programs be good places to start creating graphics? I have a little experience in PhotoShop and 3D Studio Max through trials, but can't afford the full versions, I have some experience with PSP7 and also I downloaded the trial of X1 yesterday and have been playing around with it http://www.talkgraphics.com/images/smilies/smile.gif