If you want to 'index' at some point, yep, stick with the stepper. (else you get into encoders and feedback loops which complicate the design).
Pretty successful learning experience, you will tune this in in no time...
Changing direction of cut might be the same as reversing rotation as John says. Mine flips rotation direction easily so am able to do that. It does seem to leave a smoother finish in one direction (I am using full round cutters on centerline). I wonder if there is any advantage to cutting on the 'side' as John needed to, since cutting velocity might be greater and more uniform than a full round cutter...