10 Things Every Whale Lover Must Have

On November 14, 1851, Moby Dick, a novel by Herman Melville about the voyage of the whaling ship Pequod, was published by Harper & Brothers in New York. Although Moby Dick is now considered to be one of the greatest classics in American literature, when it initially made its debut, Moby Dick was a wet flop.

First published in London in October of 1851, the story of Moby Dick was told in a 3 volume set titled The Whale. Although he had enjoyed success with his previous adventure style novels, Melville’s first tragic epic tale didn’t impress readers.

As is the case with many literary successes, Moby Dick was rediscovered in the 1940’s, and has since become a staple on school reading lists all over the country.

Relived in a variety of mediums, including books, movies, TV shows, and songs, the tale of the White Whale remains a haunting one to literary fans the world over. Fans of Moby Dick might also want to check out In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex, a true account of a whaling ship that succumbed to the evil plotting of one peeved off whale. Many believe this was the story that motivated Melville to compose Moby Dick.

To celebrate the 161st anniversary of this epic survival story, here are a collection of some of my favorite whale-themed projects, photos, and yes, even cupcakes!

1. What Lies Below from Lisel Jane Ashlock
2. Whale of a Project from Full Plate Living
3. Spouts the Baby Whale Earrings from marmar
4. Fabric Whale from Heartmade
5. Wooden Whale Plaques from By the Sea Decor
6. Handpainted Fabric Gift Wrap from The Hot Glue Hangover
7. Whale of a Cupcake from Dozen Flours
8. Wool Whale from Kaboodle (Crate and Barrel)
9. Man and Whale from National Geographic
10. Spotty Whale from kirstyelson

Main image courtesy of Terry Fan

Celebrate creativity every Wednesday with a “Creativi-bee” post, where I share easy craft tutorials, project ideas, and craft collections.