yet another newbie question :)

I have just recently gotten started in machining. I am using
sherline equipment and have just about finished my first project, a
steam engine from the Rudy Kouhoupt video and plans. I am very
pleased with what I have been able to accomplish thus far. My
question is concerning CNC. I am having a heck of a time finding
resources to explain the very basics. Basically what I am looking
for is a way to "automate" milling of simple shaped items but and not
deal with the tedium of cranking and cranking where a fair amount of
material must be removed. Am I way off base here? Should I just
stick with what I have?

thanks for your time
matt