1. Corsets: Whale bones were widely used in the garment industry, especially in the making of corsets during the 18th and 19th centuries. The bones were shaped and inserted into channels within the corset to provide structure and support.
2. Bustles: Bustles, used to accentuate the backside of women's dresses in Victorian-era fashion, were often made with whalebone frames to achieve the desired shape and volume.
3. Crinolines: Crinolines, hoop-like underskirts worn by ladies to support and give fullness to their dresses, were historically crafted using whalebone hoops.
4. Umbrellas: Whalebone was commonly used in the manufacturing of umbrella ribs, providing them with strength and flexibility to endure windy conditions.
5. Fans: Before plastics became mainstream, fan ribs and handles were often made from whalebone, giving them a lightweight yet sturdy construction.
6. Walking Sticks and Canes: Whalebone could be fashioned into elegant and durable walking sticks, primarily used as support aids or fashionable accessories.
7. Furniture: In certain cultures, whale bones found their application in furniture. For instance, ornate chairs might feature whalebone in the frame, legs, or armrests.
It's important to note that due to the decline in whale populations and increasing awareness about the harmful impacts of whaling, the use of whale bones in manufacturing has significantly decreased. Today, many products that were traditionally made from whale bones now use synthetic or alternative materials in response to conservation efforts and evolving societal values.