Where can I get birch bark for a handle?

[Mr.Wizard]

I thought I would pass some time by assembling a knife using birchbark for the handle. I wanted to gather this locally but I am having trouble finding the right kind of tree in a place I can harvest. If I strike out where can I buy some?

 

[Mikke]

Brisa in Finland has it. Sells by the kilo or as spacers, I would guess that a kilo pack would be plenty enough for several knives.

 

[Mr.Wizard]

M Mikke Thank you. With shipping that is really stretching my budget but it is nice to have it as a last resort.

 

[Lieblad]

I seen it on Amazon and Etsy. Even seen it at handicrafts/hobby supplier. Michaels maybe ??
Lucky for me, I have a buddy in northern BC supplies my needs every time its his firewood season.

 

[Mr.Wizard]

If I can't find birch would the bark of an alder work for a handle? That cannot be harvested from a living tree without killing it as I understand, but it would be easy to find a fallen alder in the woods around here.

L Lieblad Thanks, I'll check those.

 

[Curse The Sky]

I'd imagine virtually any species with thin, flexible bark would work, just pay attention to species that may cause allergies/reactions. I'd also recommend some type of finish (CA glue, epoxy, lacquer, etc.) on the outer surface to help prevent moisture and oils from getting in.

Birch bark is probably the most popular because of how common it is in some areas, and the fact that it peels easily without doing too much harm to the tree, as long as you use good judgement.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Amazon is a good place.
https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Birc...ld=1&keywords=birchbark&qid=1588932354&sr=8-3

 

[Mr.Wizard]

Amazon is a good place.

Have you purchased from that vendor? I found that before posting this thread but it has many negative reviews that concerned me, so I kept looking.