DEAR SUN SPOTS: Could you tell me how to remove moss from a cemetery monument? I know it’s done with bleach and water, but I need to know the proper mixture so as not to ruin the granite. — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: Sun Spots found instructions for removing lichen from a gravestone at ehow.com (http://tinyurl.com/3hlvmcw). These instructions say not to use bleach, but rather nonionic soap (such as Orvus, commonly used in association with horse and sheep husbandry and available at agricultural supply stores).

eHow says to mix one tablespoon of the soap with one gallon of water. For tombstones carved from marble or limestone, add one tablespoon of ammonia to the water. For tombstones made of bronze or other metal, don’t use the ammonia.

It says to use plenty of water and to not let the stone dry out while using scrapers and brushes to remove the lichen.

Another method mentioned at the same site is to use snails to eat away the lichen. Easier for you, but a little bit slower!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have quite a bit of yarn for latch hooking rugs to give away. Please call me at 779-0687 to make arrangements for picking it up. Leave a message if no answer. — Evelyn Brackett, Farmington

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am writing to see if any of your readers would have a pattern for an adult Aran pullover sweater for women. Thank you. — E. Cummings, P.O. Box 11, West Paris, ME 04289

DEAR SUN SPOTS: If anyone has used Christmas or all-occasion cards, I could use them. All I need is the pictures on the front to make baskets for shut-ins. I will cut them apart. If you are near the Lewiston-Auburn area, please call 782-2815. — Louann, Auburn

ANSWER: You might want to check with the next writer …

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I receive new greeting cards, numerous stickers, calendars with beautiful pictures, etc., from charity organizations. Anyone who can make use of these items, please call. I bet the stickers could benefit kindergarten/elementary schoolteachers. — Susan, Temple, 778-5965

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Hopefully someone can help me. I collect the Red Rose figurines and need only two to complete my set — April and October. I have doubles of March, July, September and December if anyone needs them. Thanks. — Frances, Mexico, 364-3696

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for ¾-inch plywood, ½ to 3/8 inches of any size and 2-by-4’s of any size, also pine boards, birch pieces. They can any size or thickness. Perhaps builders have some leftovers.

I am doing a wood project. Anything would help out if you can donate it. I would go pick it up. I may be reached at 782-1157. Leave a message; I’ll call you back. Thank you. — Mary Ann Michaud, Lewiston

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Hartford Community Church’s annual fundraiser Tea Party will take place Saturday, April 30, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Hartford Town Hall on Route 140. This year’s theme is Hawaiian luau and includes the tea party, musical performances, storybook readings, yummy desserts and our usual silent auction.

The cost is only $3 per person. Bring a young lady or two or three to a special tea party and enjoy an exciting afternoon. This event is by reservations only, so call me if you would like to attend. We still have 12 seats available. Thank you. — Arlene Nason, 224-7355

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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