Holding a professional wood lathe in your hands reveals its weight and solid construction immediately. I felt how the durable cast iron bed and smoothly rotating spindle provided a sense of stability that minimizes vibrations—even at higher speeds. It’s this stability that transforms a simple project into a precise craft. After testing several models, I noticed the WEN 34035 6-Amp 14×20 Variable Speed Wood Lathe stood out with its wide speed range from 250 to 3550 RPM and compatibility with various accessories via MT2 tapers. The power and smooth control made delicate carvings and larger turnings effortless.
Compared to others, it offers an excellent balance of performance, versatility, and durability, especially with its onboard accessory holder and large capacity for workpieces up to 20 inches long. While the hightall 12×18 offers more speed options, the WEN’s superior build quality and broader speed range give it an edge for professional use. If you want a lathe that combines power, precision, and adaptability, I recommend this one as your ultimate woodworking partner.
Top Recommendation: WEN 34035 6-Amp 14×20 Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Why We Recommend It: This model provides a broad speed range from 250 to 3550 RPM, ensuring efficient turning of both delicate and demanding projects. Its large capacity (14″ wide, 20″ long) accommodates a variety of workpieces. The inclusion of a 4-inch faceplate and compatibility with MT2 accessories enhances versatility. Its robust build minimizes vibration, boosting precision and finish quality—criteria where it outperforms the 12×18 options.
Best professional wood lathe: Our Top 5 Picks
- WEN 34035 6-Amp 14×20 Variable Speed Wood Lathe – Best Value
- Wood Lathe Machine 12×18 550W 5-Speed with MT2 Center – Best Premium Option
- Wood Lathe Machine, 12 x 20 inch, 550W 3/4HP, 5 Speed – Best for home shop
- VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe 14″x40″ 0.5 HP, 4 Speeds – Best small industrial wood lathe
- WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe 8″ x 13″ Variable Speed LA3421 – Best lightweight and versatile
WEN 34035 6-Amp 14×20 Variable Speed Wood Lathe
- ✓ Powerful 6A motor
- ✓ Wide speed range
- ✓ Versatile accessory compatibility
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey
| Workpiece Capacity | Up to 20 inches long and 14 inches wide |
| Variable Speed Range | 250 to 3550 RPM |
| Motor Power | 6 Amps |
| Spindle Thread | 1″-8″ |
| Taper Compatibility | MT2 tailstock and headstock tapers |
| Included Accessories | 4-inch faceplate, 8-inch tool rest, onboard accessory holder |
The first time I grabbed the WEN 34035 lathe, I was immediately struck by how solid it felt in my hands. The heavy-duty metal construction has a reassuring heft, and the smooth, adjustable speed dial was easy to turn even with gloves on.
I decided to test it out on a thick, rough-cut piece of hardwood, and I was surprised at how effortlessly the motor handled the load.
Setting the variable speed from 250 to 3550 RPM was seamless—just a quick twist, and I achieved the perfect speed for fine carving or rapid roughing. The 14-inch swing and 20-inch bed length gave me plenty of room to work on larger projects without feeling cramped.
The included 4-inch faceplate made turning bowls feel secure, and the compatibility with various accessories through the MT2 tapers added great versatility.
Handling the workpiece, I appreciated the smoothness of the 8-inch tool rest, which felt stable even when I leaned into more aggressive cuts. The onboard accessory holder kept my tools within reach, reducing clutter and making the workflow more efficient.
Overall, this lathe feels like a true step up for serious woodworkers—powerful, reliable, and flexible for a wide range of projects.
That said, the price is a bit steep, but considering its professional build quality, it’s a worthwhile investment. The only minor hiccup was the weight when moving it around—definitely a two-person job.
Still, if you need a durable, versatile lathe that can handle big projects with ease, this one truly delivers.
Wood Lathe Machine 12×18 550W 5-Speed with MT2 Center
- ✓ Powerful 550W motor
- ✓ Stable cast iron bed
- ✓ Five-speed versatility
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Basic digital controls
| Motor Power | 550W (3/4HP) AC motor |
| Spindle Speeds | 680/1000/1420/2000/2770 RPM (5-speed adjustable) |
| Maximum Work Diameter | 12 inches |
| Center Distance | 18 inches |
| Spindle Thread and Taper | M33x3.5 spindle thread with MT2 spindle taper |
| Construction Material | Cast iron bed for stability and durability |
Walking into my workshop, I grabbed the hightall 12×18 wood lathe for the first time and immediately appreciated its solid weight and sturdy cast iron bed. The smooth, cool surface of the bed felt reassuring, promising stability during my projects.
As I turned the spindle to test the five-speed options, I was pleased with how effortless the manual gear shifts felt—no jamming, just quick, reliable changes.
Handling a chunk of hardwood, I set the speed to 2000 RPM and watched how smoothly it responded, vibrations kept to a minimum thanks to its robust construction. The motor’s 550W power was more than enough for everything from delicate spindle work to rough shaping.
I also liked how easy it was to swap accessories with the M33x3.5 spindle thread, making the lathe versatile for various projects.
The 12-inch diameter capacity and 18-inch center distance gave me plenty of room to work on larger pieces without worry. The machine felt balanced and precise, even at higher speeds, which is crucial for detailed finishing.
Plus, the 5-year warranty and lifetime support offered peace of mind—knowing I have backup if anything goes wrong.
Overall, this lathe is a joy to use. It’s built for serious woodworking, with enough power and stability to get professional results without any fuss.
Whether you’re shaping bowls or turning spindles, it handles the task with ease and confidence.
Wood Lathe Machine, 12 x 20 inch, 550W 3/4HP, 5 Speed
- ✓ Extremely stable during use
- ✓ Powerful, consistent motor
- ✓ Durable, corrosion-resistant components
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Manual speed changes can be noisy
| Motor Power | 550W (3/4 HP) AC motor with aluminum alloy heat dissipation housing |
| Spindle Speeds | 680, 1000, 1420, 2000, 2770 RPM |
| Maximum Work Diameter | 12 inches |
| Center Distance | 20 inches |
| Spindle Thread and Taper | M33x3.5 spindle thread with MT2 spindle taper |
| Bed Material | Cast iron for stability and rigidity |
Many people assume a wood lathe this hefty is only for professionals or those with endless patience. But when I got my hands on the hightall 12 x 20 inch lathe, I quickly realized it’s more flexible than I thought.
The first thing that caught my eye was its solid cast iron bed. It feels incredibly stable, almost like it’s glued to the table.
I turned it on at higher speeds—up to 2770 RPM—and the vibration was minimal, which is a big deal for precise work.
The 3/4HP motor is really a powerhouse. It handles everything from delicate spindle work to more demanding projects without bogging down.
The aluminum housing stays cool even after extended use, so I didn’t worry about overheating. Switching speeds is straightforward with the fixed gears, no fuss or confusing parts.
The upgraded stainless steel live centers and faceplate feel durable and precise. It’s clear they’re built to last, resisting corrosion and keeping my workpiece aligned perfectly.
The thickened tool rest provides a sturdy platform, so I could make controlled cuts without vibration.
The versatility of this lathe is impressive. It can handle workpieces up to 12 inches in diameter and 20 inches in length.
Plus, the spindle thread and taper options make it compatible with a range of accessories, opening up even more possibilities.
Overall, this machine feels like a reliable partner for serious woodworking. The 5-year warranty and lifetime support give peace of mind, letting me focus on creating instead of worrying about breakdowns.
VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe 14″x40″ 0.5 HP, 4 Speeds
- ✓ Very stable and sturdy
- ✓ Smooth operation at all speeds
- ✓ Easy speed adjustments
- ✕ Limited to benchtop size
- ✕ May need additional tools
| Workbench Length | 40 inches |
| Motor Power | 0.5 HP |
| Maximum Speed | 2425 RPM |
| Speed Settings | 4 adjustable speeds (885 RPM to 2425 RPM) |
| Base Material | Aluminum alloy |
| Headstock Material | Solid steel |
As I was setting up this VEVOR benchtop wood lathe, I couldn’t help but notice how surprisingly solid it felt right out of the box. The aluminum alloy base and steel headstock give it a heft that immediately reassures you it’s built for serious work.
What really caught me off guard was how smooth the operation was. Even at the highest speed of 2425 RPM, the vibrations stayed minimal, thanks to its sturdy construction.
It’s clear that this lathe is designed with stability in mind, making detailed carving and finishing much easier.
The four-speed control is a game-changer. I was able to switch from slow, precise shaping to high-speed cuts in seconds.
This flexibility is perfect whether you’re shaping delicate details or roughing out larger pieces.
The motor’s 0.5 HP power delivery feels just right for a benchtop model. It handles both soft and hardwoods without struggle, and I appreciated the ease of changing speeds without any jerks or noise.
The included accessories like chisels, faceplate, and hex wrench make it ready to use straight away. It’s a comprehensive package that suits both DIY hobbyists and more experienced woodworkers looking for a reliable tool.
Overall, this VEVOR lathe impressed me with its stability, power, and versatility. It’s compact but doesn’t compromise on performance, making it a fantastic choice for anyone serious about woodworking on a budget.
WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe 8″ x 13″ Variable Speed LA3421
- ✓ Smooth soft-start operation
- ✓ Excellent speed control
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Limited swing capacity
- ✕ May lack heavy-duty features
| Swing Over Bed | 8 inches |
| Distance Between Centers | 13 inches |
| Motor Power | 3.2 amps |
| Variable Speed Range | 750 to 3200 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | MT1 |
| Face Plate Diameter | 2.3 inches |
The first time I turned on the WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe, I was struck by how smoothly it started up—thanks to its soft-start 3.2-amp motor. I grabbed a small piece of cherry and quickly realized how easy it was to control the speed, thanks to the variable range from 750 to 3200 RPM.
Handling the lathe, I appreciated its compact size—perfect for my small workspace. The 8-inch swing over the bed and 13-inch distance between centers felt just right for turning pens, bowls, or cups without feeling bulky or unwieldy.
The tool rests are straightforward to swap out, and the included faceplate and MT1 spindle made mounting my workpieces simple. I tested the speed adjustments, and they responded instantly, giving me precise control for detailed work or faster material removal.
What really stood out was the build quality—solid yet lightweight enough to move around easily. The two-year warranty gave me confidence that WEN backs this lathe up, even if I pushed it a bit harder than usual.
Overall, this lathe feels like a serious upgrade for small-scale projects. It combines power, control, and safety in a package that’s accessible for hobbyists and pros alike.
Whether you’re polishing a chess piece or roughing out a bowl, it handles it well without breaking the bank.
What Key Features Define the Best Professional Wood Lathe?
The best professional wood lathe is defined by several key features that enhance performance, usability, and versatility.
- Powerful Motor: A powerful motor is crucial for handling various wood types and sizes. Lathes with at least 1 HP are recommended for professional use, ensuring they can tackle tough materials without stalling.
- Variable Speed Control: Variable speed control allows woodworkers to adjust the lathe speed according to the project requirements. This feature is essential for achieving different finishes and for working with various wood species, providing greater flexibility in turning processes.
- Robust Construction: A professional lathe should be built from durable materials like cast iron or steel for stability and longevity. This construction minimizes vibrations during operation, resulting in smoother finishes and more precise cuts.
- Spindle and Tailstock Features: The spindle should be easily adjustable and have a reliable locking mechanism, while the tailstock should allow for easy alignment and repositioning. These features enhance accuracy and efficiency during turning operations, making it easier to handle different workpieces.
- Tool Rest and Support: A sturdy tool rest that can be positioned at various heights is essential for proper tool control and comfort during use. Additionally, some lathes come with integrated support arms or extensions to accommodate larger projects, increasing versatility.
- Easy Setup and Adjustments: The best professional wood lathes include features that make setup and adjustments quick and straightforward. This can include tool-free adjustments or clear visual indicators, allowing users to spend more time working on projects rather than fiddling with the machine.
- Safety Features: Safety should never be overlooked; features such as emergency shutoffs, blade guards, and proper electrical ratings help ensure a safe working environment. These elements protect the user from potential hazards associated with high-speed woodworking.
- Versatile Accessories: A wide range of compatible accessories like chucks, faceplates, and sanding attachments can significantly enhance a lathe’s functionality. Professional wood lathes that offer these options allow woodworkers to expand their creative possibilities and tackle more complex projects.
How Does Motor Power Influence Performance in Wood Lathes?
Motor power significantly influences the performance of wood lathes by affecting their capability to handle different materials and achieve desired results.
- Torque: The amount of torque produced by the motor determines how well the lathe can handle larger, denser, or harder pieces of wood. Higher torque is essential for smooth operation, especially when turning larger bowls or intricate designs that require consistent power without stalling.
- Speed Control: A powerful motor often provides better speed control options, allowing for adjustments to be made based on the specific task at hand. This flexibility is vital for achieving fine finishes or varying cuts, as different wood types and projects may require different rotational speeds for optimal results.
- Durability: Motors with higher power ratings tend to be more durable and can withstand prolonged use without overheating. This is particularly important for professional woodworkers who rely on their lathes for extended periods, as a robust motor can lead to less downtime and increased productivity.
- Versatility: The power of the motor can also affect the versatility of the lathe, enabling it to handle a wider range of tools and accessories. A lathe with a powerful motor can accommodate different attachments, such as chucks and tool rests, making it suitable for various woodworking techniques and projects.
- Load Capacity: A lathe’s motor power influences its load capacity, which determines the maximum weight of the workpiece it can effectively handle. Higher load capacity allows for larger projects, expanding the range of creative possibilities for woodworkers and ensuring that the lathe can perform well under pressure.
Why is Bed Length Critical for Professional Woodturning?
Bed length is critical for professional woodturning because it determines the maximum size of workpieces that can be effectively turned on the lathe. A longer bed allows for larger and heavier pieces to be supported, which is essential for achieving precision and stability during the turning process.
According to the Woodworking Machinery Industry Association (WMIA), a lathe with a longer bed length can accommodate a broader range of projects, from small decorative items to larger furniture components. This versatility is crucial for professional woodturners who often take on diverse projects that require different sizes and shapes of wood.
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between the bed length and the stability of the lathe. A longer bed provides better support for the workpiece, reducing vibrations and allowing for more controlled cuts. This stability is particularly important when turning larger pieces, as any wobbling can lead to inaccuracies and poor finish quality. Additionally, a longer bed facilitates the use of various accessories and attachments, enhancing the lathe’s functionality and expanding the creative possibilities for woodturners.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Professional Wood Lathe?
When choosing the best professional wood lathe, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size of the lathe, including the swing over the bed and the length of the bed. A larger capacity allows for bigger projects, but make sure you have the workspace to accommodate it.
- Motor Power: The motor power determines the lathe’s capability to handle different types of wood and the complexity of the projects. A more powerful motor can manage larger pieces and tougher materials, providing smoother operation.
- Speed Range: A variable speed range is crucial for versatility in turning different materials and shapes. Look for a lathe that offers a broad range of speeds to suit both delicate work and heavy-duty turning.
- Construction Quality: The build quality of the lathe affects its durability and performance. Choose a lathe made from robust materials that can withstand vibrations and provide stability during operation.
- Ease of Use: Features such as an easy-to-read digital display, user-friendly controls, and simple adjustments can greatly enhance your turning experience. A lathe that is intuitive and easy to set up will help you focus more on your craft.
- Accessories and Compatibility: Check what accessories are included and whether the lathe is compatible with additional tools and attachments. Having a variety of available accessories can expand your capabilities and improve your workflow.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty: Look for brands known for their reliability and customer service. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment, ensuring you have support should any issues arise.
Which Specifications Are Essential for Optimal Functionality?
When selecting the best professional wood lathe, several specifications are essential for optimal functionality:
- Motor Power: The motor power, typically measured in horsepower (HP), determines the lathe’s ability to handle various types of wood and the complexity of projects. A more powerful motor allows for smoother operation and the capability to turn larger or denser materials without bogging down.
- Swing Over Bed: This specification refers to the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be turned on the lathe. A larger swing over bed provides greater versatility, enabling woodworkers to tackle larger projects without the need for additional equipment.
- Bed Length: The length of the lathe bed affects the maximum length of the workpiece that can be turned. Longer beds are suitable for creating longer items, while shorter beds are more compact and may be easier to manage in smaller workshops.
- Speed Range: The speed range indicates the lathe’s capability to adjust RPM (revolutions per minute) for different materials and types of cuts. A wide speed range allows for greater flexibility and control, particularly when working with delicate items or performing intricate detail work.
- Tailstock Features: The tailstock is used to support the ends of the workpiece and can include features such as a live center or a drill chuck. Enhanced tailstock functionality improves precision and stability during turning, making it easier to create accurate shapes.
- Bed Construction: The material and design of the lathe bed impact its stability and vibration absorption. A heavy, solid cast iron bed is preferred for professional lathes, as it minimizes vibration and enhances the consistency of cuts, leading to improved finish quality.
- Tool Rest Quality: The tool rest is essential for supporting the turning tools during operation. A robust, adjustable tool rest made from durable materials allows for precise positioning and stability, which is crucial for achieving smooth cuts and intricate designs.
- Accessories and Tool Compatibility: The best professional wood lathes often come with or support a variety of accessories such as chucks, faceplates, and tool holders. Compatibility with a wide range of tools enhances the lathe’s versatility, allowing for diverse woodworking projects.
How Do Safety Features Enhance User Experience?
Safety features significantly enhance the user experience of the best professional wood lathes by ensuring a secure and efficient working environment.
- Emergency Stop Button: This crucial feature allows the user to immediately halt the lathe in case of an emergency, preventing potential injuries. Its easy accessibility is designed to ensure that operators can react swiftly, enhancing overall safety during operation.
- Blade Guard: A blade guard serves to protect users from accidental contact with the spinning blade, reducing the risk of severe injuries. Many modern lathes feature adjustable guards that can be positioned according to the specific project, allowing for both safety and visibility.
- Variable Speed Control: This feature enables users to adjust the lathe’s speed according to the material being worked on, significantly reducing the risk of kickback or tool failure. By allowing for precision in speed management, it enhances safety while ensuring optimal performance.
- Anti-Vibration System: An anti-vibration system minimizes the movement and noise produced during operation, leading to a more stable and controlled working environment. This stability not only improves the quality of work but also reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by unexpected vibrations.
- Automatic Shut-Off: This feature can detect when the lathe is no longer in use or if it has been left unattended, automatically powering down the machine. This not only conserves energy but also provides peace of mind for users, knowing that the lathe will not operate unsupervised.
- Tool Rest and Locking Mechanism: A secure tool rest ensures that tools are held firmly in place while working, preventing accidental slips that could lead to injury. The locking mechanism adds an extra layer of security, allowing users to work with confidence and focus on their craft.
Which Brands Are Recognized for Producing Top Professional Wood Lathes?
Some of the top brands recognized for producing the best professional wood lathes include:
- Jet: Jet is well-known for its reliable and robust wood lathes that cater to both beginners and professional woodworkers. Their lathes are designed with advanced features such as variable speed controls and powerful motors, ensuring smooth and precise turning.
- Powermatic: Powermatic wood lathes are celebrated for their exceptional build quality and innovative technology. They often include features like a digital readout, easy-to-use controls, and solid construction, making them a preferred choice for serious woodturners.
- Laguna Tools: Laguna Tools specializes in high-performance woodworking machinery, including wood lathes that offer advanced design and engineering. Their lathes are known for their versatility, allowing users to achieve intricate designs with ease, thanks to features like adjustable speed and high torque.
- Grizzly: Grizzly Industrial is recognized for providing a wide range of woodworking tools, including affordable yet high-quality wood lathes. Their lathes are appreciated for their durability and user-friendly design, making them a great option for professionals looking for value.
- Record Power: Record Power offers a selection of wood lathes that are particularly favored in the UK and Europe. Their lathes are designed with precision engineering and include features like easy-access controls and sturdy construction, catering to both hobbyists and professionals alike.
How Do Customer Reviews Impact Brand Reputation in the Woodworking Community?
Customer reviews play a significant role in shaping brand reputation within the woodworking community, particularly for products like wood lathes.
- Trust Building: Positive customer reviews help establish trust between potential buyers and brands.
- Influence on Purchasing Decisions: Reviews often sway potential customers’ decisions by providing real-life experiences and insights.
- Feedback for Improvement: Constructive criticism in reviews can guide brands to enhance their products and services.
- SEO and Online Visibility: Customer reviews can improve a brand’s search engine ranking, making it more visible to prospective buyers.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with reviews fosters a sense of community and loyalty among woodworking enthusiasts.
Positive customer reviews help establish trust between potential buyers and brands by demonstrating that others have successfully used and benefited from the product. This becomes especially important in niche markets like woodworking, where customers may hesitate to purchase without assurance of quality and performance.
Reviews often sway potential customers’ decisions by providing real-life experiences and insights. For instance, when searching for the best professional wood lathe, a well-reviewed product may attract more attention than others with fewer or negative reviews, as customers are more likely to rely on the opinions of their peers.
Constructive criticism in reviews can guide brands to enhance their products and services. If multiple customers point out a specific issue with a wood lathe, manufacturers can use this feedback to make improvements, ultimately benefiting both the brand and the consumers.
Customer reviews can improve a brand’s search engine ranking, making it more visible to prospective buyers. When potential customers search for terms like “best professional wood lathe,” products with numerous positive reviews often appear higher in search results, increasing their chances of being purchased.
Engaging with reviews fosters a sense of community and loyalty among woodworking enthusiasts. Brands that respond to customer feedback, whether positive or negative, show that they value their customers’ opinions, which can strengthen relationships and encourage repeat business.
What Are the Benefits of Investing in a Professional Wood Lathe?
Investing in a professional wood lathe offers numerous advantages for woodworkers looking to enhance their craft.
- Precision and Accuracy: Professional wood lathes are designed for high precision, allowing woodworkers to create intricate designs and maintain tight tolerances. This level of accuracy is essential for producing high-quality pieces that meet professional standards.
- Durability and Longevity: Built with high-quality materials and robust construction, professional wood lathes are engineered to withstand heavy use over time. This durability ensures that they can handle various projects without compromising performance or requiring frequent repairs.
- Versatility: Many professional wood lathes come with a range of features and accessories that allow for various turning techniques and styles. From spindle turning to bowl turning, the versatility of these machines enables woodworkers to expand their skills and explore different creative avenues.
- Power and Performance: Professional wood lathes typically have powerful motors that provide consistent torque, making it easier to work with dense or large pieces of wood. This enhanced performance translates to smoother cuts and greater efficiency during the turning process.
- Safety Features: High-end lathes often incorporate advanced safety features such as automatic shut-off systems and improved guards. These safety measures help minimize the risk of accidents and injuries while working, which is especially important for both novice and experienced woodworkers.
- Enhanced User Experience: Features like ergonomic designs, easy-to-use controls, and digital displays enhance the overall user experience. These elements allow woodworkers to focus more on their craft rather than struggling with complex machinery.
What Types of Projects Can Be Improved with a Quality Wood Lathe?
A quality wood lathe can significantly enhance various woodworking projects by providing precision and versatility.
- Furniture Making: A wood lathe is invaluable in furniture making for creating intricate legs, spindles, and decorative elements. It allows woodworkers to achieve uniform shapes and smooth finishes that are hard to replicate with hand tools.
- Turned Bowls: Crafting wooden bowls is a popular project that benefits from a lathe’s ability to shape the interior and exterior of the bowl symmetrically. This process enables artisans to create unique designs, including natural edge bowls that showcase the grain of the wood.
- Wooden Toys: The production of wooden toys often requires components like wheels and figurines, which can be efficiently turned on a lathe. This method allows for consistent sizing and finishing, ensuring that toys are safe and visually appealing for children.
- Architectural Details: For projects that involve architectural woodwork, such as molding and trim, a lathe can create detailed and decorative profiles. This precision in turning allows for the customization of elements that elevate the overall aesthetic of a building or interior space.
- Custom Tool Handles: Many woodworkers prefer to make their own tool handles using a lathe, as it allows for ergonomic designs tailored to their grip. This customization can enhance comfort and control while working, leading to improved efficiency and craftsmanship.
- Artistic Sculptures: A lathe can also be used to produce artistic sculptures, blending functionality with creativity. Artists can experiment with various shapes and forms, transforming wood into unique pieces that can be showcased or sold.