DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am a 68-year-old woman and have a small face. It is now recommended that N95 masks be worn to protect against the omicron virus, but I cannot find a surgical mask to fit my face properly. They are a loose fit on me. Can you recommend what I should do to find a safe and effective surgical mask that will fit my face? — No name, no town

ANSWER: The CDC recommends that you wear a “well-fitting” mask according to this article released on Dec. 27. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html

My first thought is for you to try a child-size mask to see if that works for you. You may also try to adjust the ear loops or ties on a regular-sized mask to see if that’s helpful.

There are many internet companies, including Amazon, that sell the KN95 and N95 masks in different adult sizes, including small and standard (medium/large size). Some companies even have masks to accommodate beards! Lutema.com is just one of several U.S. companies that sell small adult masks.

The N95 size M/L is the standard size face mask, and the small is a slightly smaller, more fitted version for smaller face shapes. If you’re having difficulty choosing which shape and size are best for you, measure from the middle of the bridge of your nose, to the bottom of your chin with a soft measuring tape then order according to your chosen company’s size chart.

If any readers know where you can find N95 or KN95 masks for smaller adult faces in the local area, please write in.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Some time ago you printed contact information for seamstresses in the area. Could you please print it again? — Denise, Lewiston

ANSWER: In the Rolodex, I have Sue Roebuck, Mom the Mender, on Upper Street in Turner. Her telephone number is 754-6558; LA Clean & Spin/John’s Clean & Spin — they have 20 years of experience with altering, repairing and restoring clothing. You can contact them at 782-3466 in Auburn or at 784-9096 in Lewiston.

Another option is Lolita Ateliers (https://lolitaalters.com/). She is at 158 Court St., Suite 14 in the Engine House in Auburn. She is a trained seamstress who does alterations, upcycling, custom designs, gives private lessons, and more.

You can schedule an appointment through her website or call her at 405-3750. Her hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday and Saturday.

Another person who may be able to help you is Dona at If You Say Sew in Durham (https://if-you-say-sew.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral). Dona can be contacted at 653-5507.

I also have Veronica’s Creations in Greene. The hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The number is 514-6820.

Western Maine Machines does sewing machine sales, sewing machine repairs, and clothing alterations. It’s at 43 Exchange St. in Rumford. The number is 418-0464.

Many dry cleaners have a seamstress on call for clothing repairs. If you have someone to recommend, I want to hear about it!

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.

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