Green spindle turning

Green spindle turning is a woodworking technique where a soft, freshly cut piece of wood—called “green” because it hasn’t dried yet—is shaped on a lathe. The wood is spun rapidly, and tools are used to carve and smooth its surface into symmetrical forms like bowls, legs, or decorative items. Because the wood is still moist, it’s easier to shape, but it also requires careful handling to prevent cracking or warping as it dries and stabilizes. This method is valued for working with softer wood, allowing for detailed, organic forms that can be refined as the piece dries.