The lathe I have is missing a handle on the cross slide piece. I had some round metal lying around and tried to give it a shot at making a new handle. I think I needed to freehand the curve in the handle. The X and Y handles are too confusing to use together. I messed up the shape but I'm going to see how close I can make it fit in the hole.

pretty good so far,...and you say you're new at this

try searching for a 'graver' tool, possibly make one yourself. I believe thats what old time wood turners used for making shapes.

I would slow the speed down and use a half round file.
Then again, I'm a woodworker ...

Hi Geoff, ...I was on a site where quite a few of the people use a file while turning metal. I tried but I think the piece I had was too hard. I didnt see any results. I definately will try a file when I get some brass to turn. That should be easier. As for the speed, I'm still playing around with that.
p.s. Welcom to woodworkers post!!

You would still need to 'rough out' but the file 'finishes' okay.
BTW, dont hold the file stationery. Actually still make a 'full stroke' as if it was in the vice, but as it is slowly rotating.
And the file MUST have a handle fitted otherwise the tang could end up in your wrist. Ouch!

aha! I was expecting the spinning of the object to do the work. I was moving the file at first but the length of it made me tilt it away from the bed and carriage. I thought I'd be ruining the shape with the rocking motion I was causing.
Unfortunately with a metal lathe the carriage doesnt lift off. It has to be rolled all the way to the end, and then the tail stock put back on . Thats if I need to get my hands (file) in there. I really have to learn how to use this machine a little better. I'm probably doing more work than necessary.