Woodworking Facts Woodturning on a Lathe Woodturning is a woodworking technique where a piece of wood is rotated on a lathe while being shaped with cutting tools. This process is used to create symmetrical, cylindrical objects like bowls, spindles, and table legs. Woodturning requires a combination of skill and creativity, as the woodworker must carefully control the tools to shape the wood evenly. Different chisels, gouges, and scrapers are used to achieve the desired form and finish. The lathe