Contrasting material set flush into the surface for a custom look.
What it is
An inlay is a piece of one material set into a recess cut into another. The pocket is usually CNC machined, then filled with a contrasting material such as Carbon Fiber, Wood, Resin, Mokume Gane, another metal or a glow-in-the-dark lume insert. Inlays may be pressed, glued or held mechanically, and the method depends on the maker.
How it feels in your EDC
Inlays add visual contrast and personality, pairing materials with different colors, textures and character. Most sit flush with the surrounding surface, so the piece feels smooth and continuous in hand. A tight, even seam between the two materials is a good sign of careful workmanship. Some inlays can also add warmth, grip or a touch of glow.
Care & aging
Care for each material in the inlay the way it needs. Wood and resin inlays should stay away from high heat, long soaking and strong solvents, which can loosen or damage them. Clean around the seam with a soft cloth or brush. Over time, the two materials may age differently, which often adds to the character.
是什么
镶嵌（Inlay）是把一种材料嵌入另一种材料上切出的凹位中。凹位通常由 CNC 加工而成，再填入对比材质，例如碳纤维（Carbon Fiber）、木材（Wood）、树脂（Resin）、木纹金（Mokume Gane）、另一种金属或夜光嵌件。镶嵌件可能压入、胶粘或机械固定，方法取决于品牌。
上手感受
镶嵌增加视觉对比和个性，把颜色、纹理和气质不同的材质搭配在一起。大多数镶嵌件与周围表面平齐，所以握在手中顺滑连贯。两种材质之间接缝紧密均匀，是工艺用心的好迹象。有些镶嵌还能增加温润感、握持感或一点夜光。
保养与老化
按镶嵌中每种材料各自的需要来保养。木材和树脂镶嵌件要远离高温、长时间浸泡和强溶剂，它们可能导致松动或损坏。用软布或软毛刷清洁接缝周围。时间久了，两种材质可能以不同方式老化，往往更添味道。
