käsisorveilla

Käsisorveilla, a Finnish term, translates to "hand lathes" or "manual lathes" in English. These are woodworking tools used for shaping materials, primarily wood, through rotation. Unlike powered lathes, käsisorveilla rely entirely on manual force for operation.

Historically, käsisorveilla were common in craft workshops and homes, particularly for producing smaller, intricate items. Their operation typically involves a workpiece secured between two points, often a spur center and a tailstock center. The user then rotates the workpiece by hand, usually with a foot-powered treadle or a bow and string mechanism. A cutting tool, held by the user, is then applied to the spinning workpiece to remove material and create the desired shape.

The complexity of shapes achievable with käsisorveilla depends on the skill of the operator and the design of the lathe. Simpler designs might allow for basic cylindrical or conical forms, while more sophisticated setups could enable the creation of turned legs, bowls, and decorative elements. Although largely superseded by electric lathes for mass production and professional use, käsisorveilla still find a niche among hobbyists, artisans, and those interested in traditional woodworking techniques. They offer a hands-on and intimate connection to the material and the craft, emphasizing manual dexterity and control.