DEAR SUN SPOTS: Several years ago I took a class in punching an oriental rug. The instructor was from Falmouth, and I believe her name was Carol Barton. I’m hoping to find a supplier of the wool yarn we used since I have run out of some colors, and the rug is not completed.

If anyone in the area knows of an outlet of this particular yarn, I would love to hear from them. I do know that the yarn came from Halli Association Inc. in Massechusetts, but they are no longer in business. I have also tried many yarn stores with no success. I can be contacted by e-mail at jellent@beeline-online.net, or by phone at 645-2786. — Linda Jellison, Wilton

ANSWER: Sun Spots spoke with the owner of Runge Oriental Rugs in Yarmouth. He said the yarn you are looking for is probably Paternayan yarn, a 3-ply Persian yarn. He suggested you try Grace Robinson & Co., 208 Route 1, Freeport, 865-6110; or Halcyon Yarn, 12 School St., Bath, 800-341-0282. Perhaps readers will have something to offer as well.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Who is responsible for clearing and sanding the sidewalk on Cedar Street in front of the entrance to the Franco-American Heritage Center? This is the second year that I have attended the Androscoggin Choral Christmas Performance in which the sidewalk has been covered with ice and no sand on it. The walking was very difficult.

The sidewalk next to the side entrance was all clear. Is it possible that the side entrance could allow patrons in? The parking lot is always full no matter how early I get there. I am assuming that the performers are parking their cars close to the street.

For those of us who are elderly and have difficult walking, it is quite a long walk from back of the parking lot to the front entrance, especially on ice-covered sidewalks. Thank you. — No Name, Lewiston

ANSWER: Sun Spots spoke to Andrew at the center. He said they do their best to keep the sidewalks clear and hopes that these were isolated incidents. Sun Spots has noted at her own home that the ice has been slow to melt. The low temperatures we’ve been having make it difficult for the salt to act efficiently.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am writing this letter to find out if any of your readers know where I can find De-Fuzz. It is used to take pills out of sweaters and clothing, brown, approximately 3 by 1½ inches and shaped like a half moon.

I purchased one years ago and now can’t find a replacement anywhere. I have used other products, but none have worked as well. If anyone has information on where I could find one, it would be greatly appreciated. — Sandra Ahlberg, No Town

ANSWER: Sun Spots found a De-Fuzz It online. One Web site is www.thewoolenmill.com/Product.aspx?id=233&pid=0, where they sell it for $2.95. You can call them at 1-989-652-6555. Sun Spots just placed an order for one. She’ll let you know how it works.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I saw an article in your column about making bears out of old mink coats. My mother has mentioned she would like to have some made. Do you have the name of the person who does this? Thank you for any information you can share. — Anita, Newry

ANSWER: A helpful Sun Spots reader provided us with the name of fur teddy bear-maker Angie Rogers, P.O. Box 185, Gray, ME 04039, 428-4415.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for a baby shower gift to make for my daughter’s first baby. I have seen it many times but can never find directions to make it.

The gift is either a bunny or teddy bear. It’s made with baby shower gifts such as baby towels, face cloths and what appears to be a baby receiving blanket.

Do any of your readers know how to make the teddy bear or bunny? I know how to make the diaper cake. Thank you for any help you can give me.

You can reach me at justina_marie_1960@yahoo.com. — Justina, No Town

ANSWER: Readers, can you help?

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). Please include your phone number. 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 e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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