Fab(ric) Lab. Custom Fabric!

Couple of places doing this, http://www.fabricondemand.com/ has cotton and polycotton blends, as well as microsuede and more.
at http://www.bonbonkakku.com/, you can submit designs and have them voted on - and bought by people worldwide.

Hand Made Fab? Sugru!

This is the stuff that should be sitting in the "everything" drawer of every household, along with the gorilla glue, the epoxy putty and the box of screws.  Haven't bought any yet, but you should check out what other people have "fabbed" by hand with this stuff.   Available from sugru.com Comes in white, black, blue orange and green, as well as a handy variety pack. One 5g "sachet" is enough for one small repair, about $9.77 for 6 5g sachets (in single colour).

Shapeways - 3D Printing, Interesting Materials

http://www.shapeways.com/ has some interesting materials available for 3D printing, including an "alumide" mix of aluminum and nylon.  While not strong, it offers a sought after appearance.  Shapeways is able to create a number of different objects from whimsical to utilitarian, like this working compressor.

Check it out at http://www.shapeways.com/model/198434/mini_centrifugal_compressor.html?gid=cg14

Back after a Long Absence

My fascination never faded, only my patience.  Several Updates to follow.