I am using WindowsXP (Home, SP2). I know different languages can be set, using the
regional settings. But is there a way to completely customize keyboard
input -- as in essentially creating my own language set. Specifically,
I want my keyboard input to be configured for the QWERAK layout (a
QWERTY/DVORAK hybrid invented by FingerWorks as an alternative layout
for their TouchStreamLP keyboards).

Greetings!
Thanks for the interesting question, I had never actually heard of
QWERAK before but it looks intriguing.  The best and by far safest way
to remap the keys on your keyboard is to download a nice piece of
freeware called KeyTweak. Keytweak 2.0 got a 4.5 rating on Freeware
Web and is available here:

"Keytweak is a free keyboard remapper for Windows NT/2000/XP.  It
makes use of Microsoft's Scancode Map registry key to remap your
keyboard.  VB6 Runtime files are required, but are already present on
Windows 2000/XP. "

http://webpages.charter.net/krumsick/

"in easy to use utility that lets you redefine/remap your keyboard
input signals. So, if you don't have a keyboard that includes special
function keys, you can remap F12 as a mute button, for example. This
version features a new teach mode that lets you press two buttons on
your keyboard to remap them"

http://www.freewareweb.com/cgi-bin/archive.cgi?ID=1698


Another option for you if you don't want to go the freeware route is a
shareware package that is available called "Key Transformation".  Here
is the description for that:

"Key Transformation can customize your keyboard layout, change any key
on the keyboard to other keys. Its on-screen-keyboard ( soft keyboard
) is very easy to use.

Want the F1 key to type B? Want the D key to type f? Want the
Shift+Enter key to press Table? Want Shift+1 to type a Sentence? Want
an exchange between Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V?

Key Transformation can do these easily.
The program allows you to redefine system keys, such as , Ctrl, Alt,
Shift, Table, and Win keys. You can also disable desired key.

It can extend your keyboard function. By using it, the input method of
special language can be accompished easily.

Now you can set your own keyboard layout and enjoy easier, faster and
less painful typing."

The total price on Key Transformation is $44.95 and the download comes
with a 15 day trial.

http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/OS-Enhancements/Key-Transformation.shtml

Good luck learning QWERAK.  If you have any questions or need
something cleared up please request a clarification before rating my
answer and I'll be happy to help.

Best,
djbaker-ga

Search strategy:

remap keyboard

Very helpful, detailed answer. Plenty of links to websites with
software solutions to my problem.5

I'm glad this is what you were looking for.  Thank you very much for
the 5 stars and the tip.

Have a great day!

djbaker-ga