5 Bullet Journals & Notebook Brands for 2023
Moleskine, Leuchtturm1917 and Rhodia are well-known brands for seasoned notebook addicts. But if you are looking for something a bit more unique, here are 5 alternatives to check out.
Rainer Maria Wilde wrote, "We see the brightness of a new page where everything yet can happen.” The start of a new year often marks the start for new intentions, goals and habits. Writing it down is an important part of the process, and can help keep you motivated and focused along the way.
Whether you're an infrequent doodler, a journal addict or an incurable organiser, look for a journal that suits your everyday needs. Will you be carrying it around in your tote bag all day or keep it by your bed? Do a colourful cover make you more likely to pick it up or do you like the tactile feel of vegan leather and linen? Do you need thicker paper (120-150 gsm)) for your pens, illustrations and inks, or will lighter ones (80-100 gsm) do?
Feel free to leave a comment if you know a notebook brand you feel should be included!
Badly Made Books (Ireland)
Practical and eye-catching softcover notebooks made from recycled paper. Choose between dotted, lined and unlined paper. There is a large range of printed covers available, so pick whichever suits your desk decor!
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Perfectly Penned (UK)
These hardcover notebooks are great to write on and surprisingly affordable. Choose between classic vegan leather covers (brown or black) or more colourful options. The pages are thicker (120 gsm) and individually numbered, which make them perfect for bullet journalling. The books come wrapped in a beautiful box with tissue paper and a wax seal.
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Ottergami (UK)
Beautiful notebooks with a luxurious feel. The paper is thick (150 gsm) which is great if you enjoy using markers in your journal. While most journals come in standard A5 size, they also have a slightly larger B5 journal with 180 gsm paper. Some notebooks even come with accessories such as stencils, pen holders and a large range of colourful covers.
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The School of Life (UK)
The linen bound notebooks from The School of Life are designed to "accommodate ideas, aspirations and worries in the therapeutic activity of writing down your thoughts". The first page contains an inspirational essay related to the title of your notebook (Journeys, Ideas, Projects). Printed on 100 gsm dotted paper, these books are both functional and elegant.
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Bindewerk (Germany)
This German company carries a large range of sketchbooks, diaries and notebooks. We are particularly fond of their "PURIST WOOD" series that features an elegant wood veneer cover and textured cream pages. The paper is thin (the weight is not listed on website, but ours feels like 80 gsm) and will probably not take heavier inks well. However, it is perfect for carrying around in your bag for sketching and everyday notes - the elastic strap keeps it closed while the cover protects the content from damage. Choose between blank, lined or dotted pages and multiple sizes.
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