The purpose of this research is to increase the efficiency and accuracy of the turning process by means of an active work-rest mechanism. A prototypical experimental mechanism which controls two degrees-of-freedom motion of a workpiece is made and experimentally investigated. The mechanism supports the workpiece and controls its radial motion by means of a feedback system composed of noncontact displacement sensors, linear actuators and PID controllers. As a result, the active work-rest mechanism effectively eliminates vibration of workpiece which synchronizes with spindle rotation of lathe. It shows better performances in state of two degrees-of-freedom motion control than one degree-of-freedom motion control. It improves surface roughness and roundness of workpiece.