A turnover toaster was surprisingly simple compared with the appliances we use today. Bread was placed between or near exposed electric heating elements, which became hot when the toaster was switched on.
As the bread toasted, the heating elements gradually browned its surface. Because there was no automatic mechanism to flip the bread, the user had to watch carefully and turn it by hand when one side reached the desired color.
This meant making toast was a small, hands-on routine. Too little attention could leave the bread pale, while waiting too long could result in burnt toast.
