An ancient craft passed down from father to son, widespread in Damascus and many Syrian provinces. In the past, it depended on the craftsman's ability to skillfully shape pieces of wood using a hand lathe. It then evolved into a semi-automatic lathe and then an automatic lathe, although intricate arabesque work is still done by hand. Woodturning is also used in the production of arabesque work, which requires a high degree of precision. The miniature arabesque used in Syrian furniture is known to be the most precise and refined type of woodturning, due to the quality of Syrian walnut wood. It is worth noting that manual woodturning is still more precise and smoother than machine woodturning. 

Woodturning products have diversified to include a wide range of miniature antiques such as chess pieces, tools, household utensils, and furniture. It is used in many decorations such as wooden dividers, mashrabiya, and others.