I don’t know how long this free resource has been available from Microsoft, but I’ve set aside some time and started on the first stages of the online training called .toolbox. This is pitched as a fun online learning environment, where you can learn basic design concepts along with the fundamentals of creating Silverlight apps.

Using Expression Studio tools, you’re taken through a selection of courses and tutorials of increasing difficulty. These are designed to introduce you to the rich tool set in the Expression Studio and demonstrate their practical use in the design and development of applications. At the end of each course, you can also take a test in order to build up your score and earn badges as you progress from “Rookie” to “All Star” status.

Combine this with a free 60 day trial of Expression Studio Ultimate and you’ll well on your way to establishing a really good foundation for the development of Silverlight and WPF applications.