DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thankfully we have you to go to when we can’t find answers anywhere else.

Right now I need to know if Concepts in Comfort in the Portland area has gone out of business. The covers of my porch sofa are in need of replacement, and phone calls to the number I have go unanswered.

In a call to 411 information, the operator said she thought they were no longer in business. Does anyone out there know the answer?

I could also use the name of a good business in our area who might cover the cushions on my sofa. As always, thank you for your help. — No Name, Auburn

ANSWER: Sun Spots did not find anything online about Concepts in Comfort closing, but the phone number is disconnected.

She can be more helpful in finding alternative sources for your cushions. The following vendors work with outdoor furniture, or have performed similar tasks.

Sun Spots always tries to find all sources for products and services, but she doesn’t always succeed. If other businesses that supply this service were left out, please email sunspots@sunjournal.com to have your business name and contact information published in the column.

* Alterations by Judy, 783-6201

* Cecile Giguere, 784-3028

* Gagnon Boats in Livermore Falls, 897-4681

* Leo’s Custom Upholstery in New Auburn, 782-3822

* Tom’s Upholstery, 539-4794 (home) or 577-1939 (cell)

DEAR SUNSPOTS: The canvas seating and backing on my outdoor swing has given out. It is one piece of canvas that is sewn onto the bench frame and upon which the cushion goes. I wonder if there is anyone in the Lewiston-Auburn area who could replace it for me.

Thank you for all your great help. — Lisa Goundie, lgoundie@roadrunner.com

ANSWER: When Sun Spots was calling vendors about these upholstery questions, Alterations by Judy mentioned a customer who had come in with a seat support that was an integral part of the metal frame and who had written to Sun Spots. That sounds like it might be you.

“Judy” said that the canvas was actually riveted between the metal pieces, so there was no way to replace the canvas piece. Sun Spots doesn’t doubt Judy’s assessment, but she is unwilling to give up too easily.

Perhaps another piece of canvas could be sewn onto what remains? Or the way the support is attached to the frame can be altered? Or perhaps the frame can be taken apart?

Sun Spots loves coming up with unusual ways to solve these kinds of dilemmas. She would be interested in knowing more about this troublesome attachment.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I really enjoy your column. It is helpful to so many people. I hope someone can help me.

I am looking for a crochet pattern for air freshener dolls. I am willing to pay for copies and postage. — No Name, Wilton, 860-6313

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 emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.