Yes, there are several Smurf collectors

Q: I have a large collection of Smurf figures, including several with accessories. Do you know of anyone who collects them? — Barb, Northglenn, Colo.

A: Smurfs were introduced in 1959 as secondary characters in a comic strip drawn by Belgium illustrator Pierre Culliford. The little creatures were popularized in America by the studios of Hanna Barbera.

Greg Quire bills himself as the world’s largest Smurf reseller and might be able to help you. Write to him c/o The Cooll Toy Shop, 1008 Fairview St., Stroudsburg, PA 18360.

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Q: My mother has been a dressmaker for 64 years and has several thousand patterns. The collection includes everything from clothes for children to bridal dresses, her specialty. Is there any place where we can market this unique collection? — Ann, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.

A: Saundra Altman is the owner of Past Patterns, a wonderful little shop that specializes in sewing patterns. Her address is P.O. Box 2446, Richmond, IN 47375. For a second opinion, you might want to contact Joy Emery, curator of the Commercial Pattern Archive, URI Library Special Collections, 15 Lippti Road, Kingston, RI 02881.

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Q: I have a tapestry of The Last Supper that appears to be quite old. Where can I sell it? — James, Maquoketa, Iowa

A: You provided me with so little information that I doubt I can help you. For example, where did the tapestry originate and what do you know about it. Is it signed or dated? Was it mass produced or handmade? All of these factors make a big difference in both value and desirability.

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Q: I have a footstool that is a genuine Cushman Colonial Creation. I wonder if you can tell me anything about it? — Barbara, Deltona, Fla.

A: Your footstool was probably crafted by the H.T. Cushman Manufacturing Company of Bennington, Vt., during the 1910s or early 1920s. The company was known for its craftsman pieces that emulated the designs of Gustav, L. & J.G. Stickley.