Abstract: A refractory material powder of a carbide-forming metal or alloy is formed into an intermediate body having a shape and size corresponding to the desired shape and size of the article. The intermediate body is exposed to a gaseous hydrocarbon or a mixture of hydrocarbons at a temperature exceeding the decomposition temperature for the hydrocarbon or hydrocarbons until the mass of the intermediate body has increased by at least 3%. The intermediate body is thereafter exposed to a temperature of 1000-1700° C. in an inert atmosphere if the temperature during exposure to the hydrocarbon or hydrocarbons was too low to ensure a complete carbidization of the intermediate body.