Musical instruments x Richlite

Richlite super dense and durable, often used in luthier and percussion instruments. Tried and tested by many of the biggest names in Guitar making, Richlite is often selected as a premium alternative to Ebony or Rosewood. Because it's made with many layers of paper, it has a similar look and feel to wood, the thermoset material is inherently dense, and can be used as fretboards and bridges on violins, acoustic guitars, base guitars, ukuleles, banjoes and other luthier instruments - as well as picks, plectrums, drumsticks, drum pads, speaker enclosures and guitar bodies. 

Made using recycled paper, Richlite's Northwest Collection is often selected for its unique combination of aesthetic appeal, density, low maintenance and acoustic resonance. Its consistent density means there aren't voids or shrinkage, as is often found with exotic hardwoods, which makes for less waste and volatility when machining and fretting instruments, and the paper is rapidly renewable. Richlite can be used with decorative inlays or routed with contrasting layers and laser etched designs. 

Richlite FAQs 

Exploring Richlite's sound, feel, durability and longevity, this FAQ explains how Richlite withstands temperature and humidity, how to fabricate, maintain and re-fret fingerboards, as well as suitable thicknesses for musical applications, different uses, finishes and material comparisons. Find answers to the most common questions about using Richlite in instruments:

Fabricating Richlite

Check out our detailed article with how-to videos showing drilling, seaming and tapping Richlite here. Richlite machines with standard woodworking tools, and is similar to working with hardwood. When mating Richlite with wood, the surfaces should be roughed up or abraded with 80-150 grit for proper adhesion. Fret slots can be cut with carbide or diamond cutters. Richlite doesn't have as much give and won't shrink or compress like natural wood, so slots should be cut slightly wider. The surfaces can be left unfinished or high polished with a buffing compound as desired. 

Care + Maintenance

Richlite is durable and doesn't need special conditioning or cleaning. It doesn't corrode or absorb oils, perspiration or dirt. Wipe clean with a soft cloth as needed.