I hope this is the right place to post this.   My question is this:   I have to file a curve shape and don't know how to do it.   Think of a half moon shape of about 16g thick or so sterling silver.  Like the dip in a saucer.  What shape file do I use?  Half round?  And how do I file?  By turning the file as I move it?  Anyone have any answers?

If your talking about the inside of the curve use the half round file and for the outside of the curve use the flat file. I have half round files with cuts that range from #2 to #6 and the same for flat files.

 I also use a filing stick with foam padding glued to it then wrapped in abrasive paper, I've also used the soft pumice stones I find in the drug store with water for inside curves. I've done a bit of holloware and sometimes filing doesn't give enough information about the surface of the metal and how round it may be, until too much material has been taken off.

Aspin, a couple things here , I would use a 1/2 round double cut smooth, not too coarse to catch the soft silver. After the general shape is cut out you can lay the "moon" flat with the curve facing the bench pins cut out or the edge of the bench.The file can be worked up & down sorta like a brooch, you can watch the angle of the cut and the pressure you use. Smooth the back of the moon with a flat file & run the 1/2 round edge perpedicular to the piece & side to side like draw filing. This should cut down on the dips & swales.

Mtlctr