You may have already ruled it out, but many communities have maker spaces where expensive equipment that might normally be out of reach is available on a shared basis. Some universities may also have ways to use their maker spaces on weekends or when classes are not in session.
I thought of that and may still go that route if I really need a precision metal part. But it's a drive and I can do most stuff with other tools. I could even 3D print a part, mold it, then cast it in metal if I need to.
My local maker space exists, but it turns a 30 minute go if I have time to something I need to plan for. Most days by the time I'm done with work, supper... there isn't enough time before bed to go to the tools I have. If I had to go to the makerspace it would be even less time because just to touch the tools and go home I've already used nearly an hour. When I work on my own I can leave a part in the lathe for next time, or skip cleanup (for a small mess this is okay), that isn't allowed in the maker space (for good reason).
For this project, do you have a YouTube channel or a blog? It would hit like catnip around here.