Micarta for handle - The reference for knife makers

micarta is the composite material of choice for craft and professional knife handles. At Mercorne, we offer a wide range of plates and inserts micarta available in Europe: micarta linen, micarta jute, micarta canvas and micarta special, available in a multitude of colours and thicknesses to suit all your cutlery projects.

What is micarta? Composition and manufacture

micarta is a high-performance laminate obtained by compressing successive layers of natural fabric (linen, jute, cotton, canvas) impregnated with a phenolic or epoxy resin under high pressure. The result is a dense, homogeneous and extremely resistant sheet - 60% resin / 40% fabric - whose mechanical qualities surpass many natural materials traditionally used in cutlery.

Originally designed for the electrical industry as a high-voltage insulator, micarta quickly won over the cutlery world thanks to its exceptional performance.

Why choose micarta for your knife handles?

micarta offers a range of technical properties that few other materials can match:

• Shock and abrasion resistance: ideal for hunting, survival and kitchen knives in daily use
• Resistant to moisture and corrosion: rot-proof, it does not swell on contact with water - unlike natural wood
• Dishwasher-proof and certified food-safe
• Heat-resistant up to 210°C (for 2 hours)
• Easy to work with: can be cut, drilled, sanded and engraved just like wood, using standard tools
• Gloss or satin finish depending on sanding: for a brilliant shine, finish with fine sandpaper then polish with polishing paste
• Wide choice of colours: from black to green, including red,orange, beige and many others

The 4 types of micarta Mercorne

Micarta Linen - The classic of traditional cutlery. Linen has a fine, even texture, excellent grip and remarkable shock resistance. Preferred by cutlers looking for a natural, elegant finish.

Micarta Jute - Jute provides a more pronounced grain and a very characteristic visible texture after sanding. It is appreciated for its rustic appearance and strength, ideal for outdoor and hunting knives.

Micarta Canvas - Tightly woven cotton offering the most even surface of the four types. Perfect for fine finishes and contemporary designs. Very popular for high-end kitchen cutlery.

Micarta Special - Our exclusive references with unique visual effects, with extraordinary combinations of materials or colours. For cutlers who want to stand out from the crowd with truly original creations.

How to work micarta? A practical guide

micarta can be worked with the same tools as any other dense wood. Here are a few essential points:

1. Cutting: band saw, circular saw or abrasive disc - micarta cuts cleanly without splintering
2. Drilling: standard HSS drills, moderate speed to avoid overheating the resin
3. Sanding: progressive from 80 to 400+ grit to reveal the layers and colours of the material
4. Finishing: polishing paste on felt or dremel to obtain a mirror-like shine, or leave matt for a warm tactile finish
5. Engraving and sculpting: possible with a dremel or chisel, to personalise your handles

Mercorne tip: wear a mask when sanding - avoid phenolic resin dust.

Micarta vs G10 vs Carbon fibre: which one to choose?

micarta is the ideal choice if you value working comfort, aesthetic warmth and versatility of use.

Mercorne, your supplier of micarta in Europe

With over 30 years' experience in materials for fine cutlery, Mercorne offers a selection of high quality micarta, tested and approved by professional and amateur cutlers throughout Europe. Our plates are available in different sizes and thicknesses to suit all handle formats.

Discover also our range of [bois stabilisés], [composites carbone] and [matériaux naturels] to complete your creations.