DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for some help finding a local wig maker. My sister has a rare disease that will have her on and off chemotherapy for the rest of her life. A side effect is hair loss, and since I have such long hair I thought I would make her a wig.

However, I can’t find anyone to help me. I tried contacting Locks of Love and other national nonprofit organizations. Locks of Love said I could donate the hair and then my sister could apply for a wig, but it’s not guaranteed.

I am wondering if you know of any wig makers in Maine? I will go out of state, but I would prefer the New England area. Thank you. — Beth, ElizabethP41@hotmail.com

ANSWER: What a lovely thing to do! Sun Spots does not know of anyone locally, but she found two websites for companies who will make the wig if you send them the hair. The websites include information on how to cut the hair properly and then send it to them.

At www.caringandcomfort.com (based in Minnesota) it says that the cut hair needs to be at least eight inches long.

The same site also says that in some cases insurance will cover the cost of the wig if prescribed by a doctor.

At www.worldofwigs.com (California company), it suggests that the cost of making your own wig is much greater (starting at $2,195)) than buying a human hair wig in stock (as low as $85).

Perhaps readers know of someone in New England or can offer additional information.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would really like to see sewing patterns in your column or the lifestyles section. I used to really enjoy seeing all the simple crafts (all the do-it-yourself tote bags, repairing ill-fitting clothing, fabric repair tips, etc.). I remember learning a lot from those tips in the 1970s.

Sewing and crafts are a great way to contribute to reduce, reuse, recyle. I know that I can look things up on the Internet, but I get overwhelmed with too much information. I enjoy seeing what others are working on and being able to communicate about it through Sun Spots for even better hints and ideas.

We particularly enjoy patterns with instructions that can be cut out and utilized for simple projects and clothing. My mom especially likes the clothing, learning about darts in blouses, adjusting waistlines for different heights and body quirks. I especially like the crafty sewing projects for gift-giving ideas like totes, dolls and holiday projects. Thanks for your consideration! — Anne Bonenfant Earle, bubbasgrls@yahoo.com

ANSWER: Many Sun Spots’ readers are interested in sewing and crafts, and you may be able to connect with some of them through the column. But sewing isn’t really the purpose of Sun Spots, which has to appeal to a wide variety of interests and consumer topics.

Perhaps a fellow seamstress will have a suggestion for you as to a website or magazine that will offer you that information in an appealing format. There are oodles of specialty publications available these days.

 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.