many woodworking lathes can also be used for making bowls and plates. the bowl or plate needs only to be held at the bottom by one side of the lathe. it is usually attached to a metal face plate attached to the spindle. with many lathes, this operation happens on the left side of the headstock, where are no rails and therefore more clearance. in this configuration, the piece can be shaped inside and out. a specific curved tool rest may be used to support tools while shaping the inside. further detail can be found on the woodturning page.