(process) - with branch and treadle

Sometimes we grow use to something in its modern form, but all things have a humbler and simpler beginning...



The tool being used here is called a "pole lathe" . It is made of simple parts ... a branch, a long string or strap, simple wooden foot treadle and a stand. It  is used to turn any number of wooden things ... from bowls and spindles to certainly toys...

The video I included was the shortest of this process. For a look at the more complete process of turning a wooden bowl on foot-powered pole lathe take a peek here.  And if you are wondering how a pole lathe might compare to a modern machine lathe, here is a comparison.