Woodturning is a form of woodworking, that is used to create wooden objects (e.g. a bowl or a table leg) on a lathe using cutting tools.

Woodturning differs from most other forms of woodworking,
in that the wood is moving while a (relatively) stationary tool is used to cut and shape it. Many intricate shapes and designs can be made by turning wood.

There are two distinct methods of turning wood, spindle turning and faceplate turning.

In spindle turning, the grain of the wood runs lengthwise, and the piece is typically spun on centers between the headstock of the lathe and the tailstock, with material removed from the side of the wood.

In face plate turning, the grain of the wood runs perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the piece
is often attached to the lathe via a plate or a chuck. Most bowls, platters and vessels are face plate
turned, while pens, table legs, and other slender
pieces are typically spindle turned.

Regardless of the method of attachment, the orientation of the grain determines the method in use, the type of tools to use, and the direction of cut.

Objects that can be produced on a lathe include candlestick holders, table legs, bowls, baseball bats, crankshafts and camshafts