There is usually some notion for a finished shape when a piece of wood is mounted on a lathe. Often times distinguishing characteristics in the wood are revealed as the shavings fly. The design of the piece is frequently varied to highlight certain elements of the wood.
The shape of the piece of wood available for turning plays the first major roll in design.
Most of the traditional turnings are a variation on the basics of bowls, platters, vases, and so on. Although there may be similarities in the pieces that Andy turns, each work is still a one of a kind. He couldn’t make two the same if he tried!