h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I've just read that book and thoroughly enjoyed it.

See you around.

Puzzler,

Even among fans of the "Guide", it's rare to find people who appreciate what a 42ism is. I use it in regular conversation all the time, and rarely get anything better than a "puzzled" look.

One new (to me) concept that I picked up for the first time in "Salmon" was the tautology. This is a concept that I was able to immediately use to simplify my life. I guess it shouldn't suprise me that I am still learning from DNA.

Thanks for getting in touch with me.

C

You can read more about 42isms at A530560.

I am intrigued by your loom project. I thought looms were for weaving?

That's right, a loom is a tool for weaving rugs and tapestries. My mom used to weave as a hobby when I was kid, and now that she is semi-retired, she wants to start again. Since I enjoy woodworking, it seemed like the natural thing that I build her a loom.

As a result, I started researching looms on-line and in the library (which I have to admit I was suprised are still actual physical buildings, not just web-pages). While I found plenty of information on very simple beginner looms, none of them have the required versatility for complex weavings. Even the looms that individuals have access to on a retail basis are oversimplified.

As an engineer, I was undaunted, and started developing my own design for the loom (as an extension of the simpler versions), but I have to admit, it's more difficult than I thought it would be.

Anyway, so far, it's been a great project to share with my mom, I just hope I can pin down a good design without having to make a career out of it.

It sounds interesting. I used a hand-loom as a child and made a checked scarf. (with adult supervision)

I have seen all sorts of old industrial weaving machines in Manchester's science museum and at Quarry Bank Mill, Styal, Cheshire.