Fabrication processes of metal-alumina composites were investigated with emphasis on the use of metal-coated alumina particles. Al₂O₃ particles (mean diameter: 250μm and 45μm) were coated with Ni powder (mean diameter: 5μm) and/or W powder (mean diameter: 1μm) by an agglomeration coating technique and the pressed compacts were sintered. The coated particles gave Ni-Al₂O₃ composites with more uniform microstructures compared with mechanically-mixed powders. W layer had to be localized at the surface of Al₂O₃ to improve adhesion of Ni. The sintered bodies were porous. Molten Ni and Cu were Basely infiltrated into the pores, giving the dense composites of Al₂O₃-Ni and Al₂O₃-Ni-Cu systems.