* As needles: The Robinson family used the quills to sew clothing, mend nets, and even create makeshift fishing hooks. Their sharp and durable nature made them ideal substitutes for traditional needles.
* As pins: The quills were also used to fasten fabrics, securing clothes and other items.
* As tools: The quills were used to mark leather, wood, and other materials, serving as makeshift pens and tools for marking or decorating.
While the story doesn't explicitly mention using them for weapons, it is conceivable they could have been used for that purpose in a desperate situation, given their sharp and pointy nature. However, the focus of the story is on their practical usefulness, highlighting the resourcefulness of the Robinson family in adapting to their island environment.