About the only thing I have lamented with my Linux OS, has been the inability to have weaving software. It's all written for PC's or Mac's! When I mentioned this in one of my Advancing Twill posts (that post here), Laritza suggested that I give the free ArahWeave Demo a try. So I did.
Back in my Windows OS days, I tried two free programs, WinWeave (the home page for which seems to have disappeared) and WeaveDesign. However, I was never able to get these to work with an emulator in Linux. ArahWeave however, installed easily and works like a dream.
I also downloaded the 163 page user's manual, which is very well written and easy to follow. It's going to take awhile to work my way through it, but here are a few photos, to give you an idea of some of the program basics.
The ArahWeave icon opens the program up in one simple window -
Under the "Files" menu, a "Browse Fabric" window can be opened. There are over 600 fabric files in the demo, including 300 tartans. I was even able to find my own clan tartan (Kennedy) -
The above photo shows browsing in the icon view. Hover the cursor over any fabric icon, and tool tip pop-up box appears,
with everything you'd ever need to know about that fabric.
One can also select the list view to choose fabrics from.
One can also select the list view to choose fabrics from.
This contains the same information, across columns like a spreadsheet.
The zoom feature allows examination of the fabric anywhere from 1/16 size, up to 16 times the original (1600%).
The zoom feature allows examination of the fabric anywhere from 1/16 size, up to 16 times the original (1600%).
Above is 1:1 or 100%. Below is 10:1, or 1000%.
There are also four different ways to view the fabric at any given zoom level. Above is called "shaded integer." Shading helps the eye differentiate between warp and weft, and shows the interlacement.
This one in black and white is called "Weave View."
There are also eight levels of fabric simulation, to give the viewer an idea of the density of the threads. The density (sett), can be changed via the "thread pattern" menu.
Here it is again, with the sett increased by about a third.
When sized at 100%, the simulation mode give a nice three dimensional look to the fabric -
When sized at 100%, the simulation mode give a nice three dimensional look to the fabric -
The fabric can also be viewed in the integer mode -
In this mode, one square represents one warp or weft thread.
Next time, I'll talk a little about the editing features. Click here for that post.
Related Posts:
ArahWeave Continued
Hurrah for Hardy! Hurray for Wine!
More Weaving Software That Can Run On Linux
Next time, I'll talk a little about the editing features. Click here for that post.
© 16 Jan. 2008 at http://leighsfiberjournal.blogspot.com
Related Posts:
ArahWeave Continued
Hurrah for Hardy! Hurray for Wine!
More Weaving Software That Can Run On Linux
8 comments:
Oh my! now I am going to have to install Linux! It's all your fault :D
And I'm not even sorry ;)
My recommendation? Ubuntu Linux.
Time I upgraded to a newer version of Linux so I can run this. I keep saying that, don't I? Must do it for 2008. All I need is a plug in USB hard drive, the software download and to find out how to edit the bios so I can boot from the new HD. I keep thinking about it, then I just go back and do some more weaving!
Have fun Leigh, but mind you don't get eye strain with all those wonderful weaves to look at on your computer! My technique to save my eyes is set a timer and take breaks.
Oh my, not another new software toy............ Just what I need.........not........ Still, I will investigate (sob, sob!). I like Dorothy's suggestion of a timer. Good for entire body. If I would have the fortitude actually to get up when it went off.........
We have a new systems support guy at work and I told him this morning that you're really happy with Linux. He was interested - says there's a newer version and it's supposed to be even better. I'm settled in with Vista for now and worn out from the transfer.
It IS POSSIBLE to run Weave Point software with Linux!
Based on your comments about Linux, it's clear that you have limited computer knowledge. Most likely you tried to use "WINE" which is a recursive acronym "Wine Is Not an Emulator". This is difficult for most novices. Since people read your blogs for advice, this matter needs to be rectified. So, this is how you can correct your statements:
1. Use Ubuntu version 7.10 or later.
2. Install "Crossover Linux". Just run the setup, no configuration required.
http://www.codeweavers.com/products/cxlinux/
The professional version offers one year of support if you get stuck.
This program allows most Windows applications to run seamlessly within Linux. (MS Office, Adobe, Quicken, Lotus.)
I have found only two apps that don't work, Solidworks 2007 and Labview 8.5.
3. Install Weave Point, just as you would with Windows. Double click on the weavepoint setup file and crossover will do the rest. It took me 6 minutes and
my mom started working in Weave Point with FULL functionality.
That's all there is to it! Good luck.
I would like to add the Arahweave costs about $1,000. Weave Point, also a professional program, only costs about $370. AVL in Chico sells that program. Just go to their site to download a trial version.
The website for codeweavers was just given in the previous comment. From that site, you can purchase professional crossover. It costs $65, and it works wonders.
Diane, thank you soooo much for this information! You're right, my knowledge of Linux is quite limited. I love Ubuntu, but only use it at "face value" i.e. with GUI. (Not that working with terminal isn't on my list of things to learn ...... :)
I don't know your email to thank you personally, and your profile isn't accessible through Blogger, but I truly appreciate this information. Please accept my heartfelt thanks.
Post a Comment