Carter concluded wood. Probably correct (although I always think of the sharp bits as "turning tools" regardless of material being cut).
I have an old Jet tabletop lathe which I have left at the space. Base, center, toolrest, and the odds and ends you need. If turning tools are used to cut it isn't really that messy. But if they mostly scrape it will kick up a lot of dust.
I will miss the next 2 Tuesdays (may be back for laser cut decorations day). So feel free to play, and Chabuku, feel free to take it home for a couple of weeks and see if it suits you.
B.