Inclusions by Mercorne: Overview and Origins

Since 2006, Mercorne has been manufacturing materials for knife handles in its workshop in La Monnerie-le-Montel (Puy-de-Dôme), created through the inclusion of materials in PMMA acrylic resin. The idea is simple: to encase materials of varied textures and colors—embroidered fabrics, feathers, lace, exotic animal skins, African fabrics, metallic foils—to create entirely original pieces, reproducible as single items or in series. This expertise, developed and perfected over nearly two decades, makes Mercorne’s inclusions one of the most unique ranges in the catalog.

Properties and Technical Specifications

The resin used is PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), commonly known as Plexiglass or acrylic glass. It is a rigid, transparent, lightweight synthetic material that is UV-resistant—an essential quality for a handle that will be exposed to light over the long term.

Durability and Longevity

Mercorne inclusions are guaranteed to be bubble-free and will not yellow over time, two common defects in lower-quality resins. PMMA resin offers excellent resistance to moderate impacts and household chemicals, including those used in dishwashers—a rare property in materials for handcrafted handles.

Machining and Finishing

Acrylic resin can be worked with standard woodworking tools: band saw, router, lathe. It sands and polishes easily to achieve a glass-like shine. Important note: Avoid overheating during sanding, as this can soften the material locally and create micro-scratches that are difficult to remove. Gradual sanding, from 240 to 1500 grit, followed by polishing compound, yields the best results.

How to choose a Mercorne inclusion for your knife?

Mercorne inclusions cover a wide range of styles and uses. Here are the criteria to consider when making your choice:

• The desired aesthetic: lace inclusions and nature motifs suit elegant or feminine knives; animal skins and African loincloths lend a bold, ethnic character; gold or silver leaf aim for a prestigious look.
• The knife’s intended use: for a kitchen or table knife used daily, dishwasher safety is a decisive factor. For a collector’s or ceremonial knife, visual uniqueness takes precedence.
• The artisan’s skill level: PMMA resin is accessible even to beginners. Its behavior is predictable during machining, without unpredictable grain or fibers as found in exotic woods.
• Harmony with the blade: an inclusion with golden highlights pairs naturally with a copper-damascened blade or mirror-polished steel. An inclusion featuring an African loincloth pattern is better suited to a patinated carbon steel blade.

Mercorne and resin inlays: 18 years of French manufacturing

Mercorne is one of the few European suppliers to manufacture its own resin inclusions in a workshop in France. Since 2006, manufacturing processes have been continuously improved: control of degassing, rigorous selection of included materials, and piece-by-piece quality control. The result: stable, consistent materials that can be customized upon request.

Each piece is cut in our workshop in Puy-de-Dôme. Orders are shipped the same day (D+0), with returns accepted within 15 days and free shipping on orders over €90. Not sure which design or finish to choose? Olivier personally answers all your technical questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mercorne Inclusions

Can a Mercorne-inlaid handle be put in the dishwasher?

Yes. The PMMA resin used by Mercorne is resistant to the detergents and thermal cycles of a household dishwasher. It is one of the few materials for artisanal handles to offer this property, making it a particularly suitable choice for kitchen knives.

Do the inlays yellow over time?

No, provided you use a high-quality PMMA resin like the one used by Mercorne. Unlike some polyester or epoxy resins, PMMA is UV-stabilized and does not yellow when exposed to normal light. All Mercorne inlays are guaranteed not to yellow.

Can an inclusion be customized with an item provided by the customer?

Yes, Mercorne accepts customization requests for certain product lines. Contact Olivier directly to discuss feasibility based on the material to be included and the desired quantities.

How do you sand and polish a resin inclusion without scratching it?

The main rule is to avoid overheating. Sand dry or wet, starting with 240-grit and gradually increasing to 1500-grit. Finish with a polishing compound for plastic or acrylic. Avoid high-speed rotary discs without temperature control.

What is the difference between Mercorne’s inclusion subcategories?

Mercorne offers several families of inclusions depending on the material used: lace for a delicate, floral look; animal hides for a wild, textured style; African loincloths for vibrant, geometric colors; natural motifs (leaves, bark, plant fibers) for an organic look, and precious objects or metals (gold and silver leaf) for a luxurious aesthetic. Each family corresponds to a distinct aesthetic universe.