Dear Sun Spots: I was wondering if someone would have a horse carriage, preferably a doctor’s buggy, to sell at a reasonable price that is in good condition and has been cared for, or stored. I want this to use for a special occasion that will be coming up soon.

I am also looking for an electric, self-playing player piano in good to excellent condition. If someone is interested in selling either item, please call me at (207) 375-9901. – Lisa Rancourt, Sabattus.

Dear Sun Spots: I am looking for someone who takes in ironing in Leeds or nearby towns. Willing to pay a reasonable amount. I can be reached at (207) 524-3831. – Sherry Woodcock, Leeds.

Dear Sun Spots: I am looking for a source for boiled wool mittens like fisherman wear. Or I would be interested in the directions to make them. I can be reached at (207) 839-6015. – Elizabeth Jones, Gorham.

Answer: Contact Ash Grove Spinning and Knitting, 298 North Road, Sebec, ME 04481, (207) 564-7259 or via e-mail at winters@midmaine.com. According to knitter and owner Lynn Winters, these gloves were traditionally knitted large, and fishermen on lobster boats would then dip them in boiling water and into the sea to shrink the wool. They would then dry the mittens prior to wearing them.

Winters also located the following information from Robin Hansen’s book “Fox Geese and Fences,” which notes that the mittens – Fishermen’s Wet Mittens – were knitted about a third bigger than a person’s hand and then they were boiled or soaked in hot water. Each time they were worn, they were dipped in warm water from the engine and worn wet. This process made the mittens shrink, become thicker and form to the hand. These mittens were made to be worn wet.

Winters uses a similar process by knitting mittens large and shrinking them in the washing machine to make a felted mitten. Winters uses a process called “fulling” where items are knit and then felted. It produces a dense, warm fabric similar to boiled wool. Her work is also carried at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockport and Lake Hebron Artisans in Monson. Ash Grove Spinning and Knitting specializes in handbags made from handspun and mill-spun yarns. Hats, mittens and socks are also available, and a new line of tea cozies has been added this year.

Dear Sun Spots: I do kitchen knitting to occupy my time. Items such as granny holders, kitchen holders, hot mats. I would like to find some outlets for them. Where might I go? – No Name, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, try your local craft fairs or churches.

Dear Sun Spots: I am looking for homeowner’s insurance that won’t discriminate against a certain breed of dog as my homeowner’s insurance will be canceled because I own a Rottweiller. – Tina, No Town.

Dear Sun Spots: Where can I get information on where to hire someone who does privy digs in Maine? – Wayne in Litchfield.

Dear Sun Spots: I’m looking to you again for help. If anyone in the Lisbon/Lewiston area would have any baby food jars they would like to get rid of, I am in need of some.

The second thing: I am looking for a sewing pattern for a dinosaur or lizards. I think McCall’s had one out a long time ago, but I can’t find mine. If someone has one to share, I would love to borrow it. You can reach me at (207) 353-2665 or e-mail maxwell@mpdu.com. – Nona Costello, Lisbon.

Dear Sun Spots: In response to the request of J.P.S. of Auburn in the Dec. 12th Sun Spots column regarding appraisal and repair of model railroad trains: My husband Larry Cannon, a member of the Great Falls Model Railroad Club, has done numerous appraisals on model train collections. He and other members of the club are also available to assist in making the trains operational. He can be reached at (207) 786-3929. – Ruth Cannon, Lewiston.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be posted at www.sunjournal.com in the Inform Us section under Press Release.