Natural wood: Ephemeral Collection - presentation and concept

The Ephemeral Collection of natural wood is a singular approach in the Mercorne catalog: it brings together species from all over the world offered in limited quantities, with no commitment to restocking. Founded in 1992 at La Monnerie-le-Montel in the Puy-de-Dôme region of France, Mercorne captures raw wood lots that don't fit into the catalog's permanent categories - rare woods, field discoveries, species uncommon on the cutlery market. Once a batch is sold out, it is generally not renewed. It is this logic of rotation that gives the collection its name.

Properties and diversity of available species

Each species referenced in this collection has its own specific characteristics. It would be inappropriate to speak of a single profile: the Ephemera Collection includes dense tropical woods as well as open-grained European woods, warm-tinted species as well as light-colored or streaked woods. This diversity is precisely its strength.

A few points to remember when working in the workshop

• Most of the natural woods in this collection are unstabilized - they retain their original state, with the natural variations this implies (residual moisture, slight grain irregularities). Some species require additional drying before processing.
• Janka hardness varies according to species, from very dense woods (over 2,000 N) to softer woods suitable for hand work. Mercorne specifies this information in the product data sheet for each species.
• Some exotic woods may contain natural oils that need to be degreased before gluing.

How to choose a wood from the Ephemera Collection for your knife?

The choice of a rare natural wood for a knife handle depends on a number of factors that the cutler, whether a beginner or an experienced knife maker, must evaluate before buying.

• Intended use: a knife exposed to humidity will benefit from a dense, naturally oily or oil-treated wood. A collector's knife is better suited to less water-resistant ornamental woods.
• Cutlery level: very dense woods quickly wear out tools and require machining experience. Medium- to fine-grained species are more accessible for hand work.
• Matching the blade: a warm wood with ochre tones goes naturally with raw steel or damascus. A very light wood enhances mirror-polished steel.
• Quantity available: given the ephemeral nature of batches, it is advisable to order the quantity required in one go - the same batch will probably no longer be available a few weeks later.

Mercorne and natural woods: 34 years of selection

Since 1992, Mercorne has been selecting and cutting wood for artisan cutlery in its workshop at La Monnerie-le-Montel. The Ephemeral Collection was born out of the desire not to miss out on sourcing opportunities for rare or uncommon species, while maintaining the quality standards of the main catalog. Each piece is checked by hand before shipping. Deadlines are met: same-day dispatch for orders placed before 12 p.m., free delivery for orders over €90, returns accepted within 15 days. Do you have any doubts about a species, its machining behavior or its compatibility with a surface treatment? Olivier personally answers all technical questions.

Frequently asked questions about the ephemeral natural wood collection

Is the ephemeral collection suitable for beginners in cutlery?

Yes, as long as you choose the right species for your skill level. Some of the woods in the collection are very easy to machine, while others require specific tools and prior experience. The product data sheet for each species details this information. In case of doubt, Olivier is available to guide you in your choice.

Can I order large quantities of this collection?

Stocks are limited by nature. For large orders, we advise you to contact Mercorne directly before placing your order, in order to check the availability of the complete batch.

Are the natural woods in this collection untreated or stabilized?

The vast majority of species in this collection are offered in their raw state. Some lots may be stabilized - this is specified on the product sheet. If you need stabilized wood for better resistance to humidity, Mercorne also offers a number of categories dedicated to stabilized wood.

How to store natural wood before machining?

Store boards flat, away from humidity and direct heat. A stable temperature and humidity environment will limit the risk of warping. For very dense or oily woods, drying at room temperature for a few weeks before machining is recommended.

Are new species regularly added to the collection?

Yes, the collection evolves according to supply. New species may appear at any time, without prior notice. This is one of the reasons why many cutlers regularly consult this page.