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Woodturning Ideas, Guides And Inspiration
Looking for your next project? Our Projects & Resources page is a place to find practical woodturning ideas, downloadable guides and useful links to help you keep learning and creating.
Whether you are a beginner looking for something simple to practise on, or a more experienced turner wanting fresh inspiration, these resources are here to help you try new techniques, build confidence and enjoy time at the lathe.
Project Inspiration
Our downloadable project guides include step-by-step ideas for a range of woodturned pieces, from decorative items through to practical objects and seasonal projects.
Below you’ll find guides for projects such as:
- Tulips
- Christmas decorations
- Turned toys
- Angels
- Wig stands
- Small decorative pieces
- Practical workshop ideas
Each project is a chance to practise different skills, explore new shapes and create something by hand.
Turned Tulips
A decorative project that can also be used to support community fundraising.
Make A Climbing Santa
Climbing Santa
A festive favourite and fun seasonal project, perfect for practising small details, shaping and finishing.
Pair Of Classic Racing Cars
A fun project for making a pair of classic racing cars, ideal for practising shaping and detail work.
Bowl With Illuminated Edge
A creative project combining woodturning with light, perfect for exploring form, detail and decorative finishing.
Pin Chuck
Make your own pin chuck, ideal for learning more about tool-making and creating useful equipment for future turning projects.
Birds And Ducks
A charming project for creating small turned birds or ducks, perfect for practising shaping, balance, detail work and decorative finishing.
Penguins
A playful project for creating small turned penguins, perfect for practising shaping, detail work, contrast and character in your finished pieces.
Hedgehog Pencil Holder
A fun and practical project for creating a characterful pencil holder, perfect for practising shaping, texture and detail work.
Winged Angel Single Axis
A decorative project for creating a turned angel using a single-axis technique.
Winged Figurine With 4-Axis Turning
A creative project for exploring 4-axis turning techniques.
Pull Along Bee Toy
A cheerful project for creating a pull along bee toy.
Christmas Tree Decorations
A festive project for creating handmade Christmas tree decorations.
Still Looking For Project Inspiration?
You can find further project ideas and help on other New Zealand websites. Let us know of any favourites!
Useful Resources
Alongside our own project guides, our newsletters share helpful woodturning resources, links and ideas from trusted woodturning organisations and makers.
These may include:
- Project plans
- Technique guides
- Tool and equipment information
- Safety reminders
- Finishing tips
- Links to other woodturning groups and resources
Please note that external resources are provided for inspiration and information. Always work safely, use appropriate tools and ask for guidance if you are unsure.