Dear Sun Spots: Since you continue to help me time and time again with so many different inquiries, I must turn to you once more with another request. I am looking for three matching votive cups from Home Interiors. I’m not sure if they are still in business, but I would love to obtain a matching set of three, if at all possible. If there is someone out there who has these items, I would be willing to pay a reasonable price for them. These should preferably be clear ones; I would be open to hearing from anyone who possibly has three in another color, as long as they match and would go with my decor. These measure around 4 inches or so and usually have a rubber circle at the tip to make sure they are stable in the candle holder. I would also be happy to swap what I have, but I only have two that match; these two are beautifully cut and are a translucent mauve, the other is clear with a wheat motif. All are in excellent condition. Anxious to hear from anyone who can help me. Kindly e-mail [email protected] or call 642-3359. Thanks and keep up the good work. Love Sun Spots! – Monique, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, contact Home Interiors consultant Irene Smith to see if the votive cups are still available to purchase. Reach her at 582-7214. According to their company Web site, Home Interiors is celebrating 50 years in business and is the largest direct seller of home accessories in North America. You may also view and shop the inventory at www.homeinteriors.com.

Dear Sun Spots: Thank you so much for your wonderful column. Would you or your readers know of a craft book that is on the market that provides instructions for quilt making or other projects using used neckties? Thank you again. – M.E., No Town.

Answer: Check out “Daddy’s Ties” by Shirley Botsford. The book contains complete patterns, step-by-step instructions and full color illustrations on making quilts, picture frames and dozens of other items from neckties. If you can’t find this book at your local bookstore, they may be able to assist you in ordering it. It is also available online at amazon.com.

The HGTV Web site offers the following instructions for turning ties into fabric that can be used for the crafts in this book. Materials: old ties, starch, iron. Steps: Start by taking out the inside interfacing. Pull the thread out of the center seam of the tie and open the seam. This will make the tie flat. If the tie is not stiff, starch the underside of the tie to make it a little rigid and easier to work with. After starching the tie, iron it on the wrong side. Put the ties together in selected patterns. If you are using more than one tie, make sure they are color-coordinated to give a unified effect to the finished product.

A contributor at thriftyfun.com reminds people to use ties with the same washing instructions. It can be disastrous to combine washable and unwashable ties in one craft.

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 Advice section under Opinion on the left-hand corner of your computer screen. In addition, you can e-mail your inquiries to [email protected].