Woodturning: The Art of Transformation
Symmetry is not always desired, but sometimes, it is simply necessary.
Woodturning is the process of transforming a raw, organic material into something close to perfection—if done right. As a technique that dates back over 4,000 years, it still amazes me to see how it remains relevant today, shaping more products than we often realize. From the traditional rolling pin—once wielded by grandmothers chasing mischievous children—to stair railings, and even the most beautiful and unique side tables or vessels, woodturning is a silent but omnipresent craft.
The possibilities for design are infinite, a never-ending interplay of shapes and forms. While industrial woodturning allows for absolute uniformity, that is not where our interest lies. We appreciate the artistry of manually setting the lathe at just the right speed, applying controlled pressure, and sculpting the wood until it takes the envisioned shape. A little too much force, a cut too deep, or even an unexpected knot in the grain can turn a piece into something entirely different—something new, something unexpected, something great.
There is a strong resemblance between woodturning and pottery. Different speeds, different materials, yet the same level of anticipation—you never truly know what the final result will be.
Designing a project often feels the same way. You start by analyzing, studying, and shaping—applying force here and there—until the raw material begins to take form. But to truly master the craft, you must remain open-minded, able to see not just what is in front of you, but what could be. The ability to visualize before even starting is what elevates craftsmanship, what separates the exceptional from the ordinary.