Every notebook from Life of Paper is made using the same products; a hard board back, 120gsm paper and matte photo card for the cover.
What does this mean though?
The matte photo card that is used for the cover means that the images are vibrant in colour and have a soft feel to them. The card is smooth and has a heavier feel without being super thick. The hard back board means that you don’t have to worry about the notebook bending on your travels when it is in your bag. The paper I use is 120gsm (read the bit below about how important is a notebook).
So, what are the best notebooks to get and what does it mean by different types of notepaper?
That depends on what you want them for. If you are using them as notes for class, then lined paper may well be best for you. If you like to doodle or add drawings to your notes, then a dotted paper notebook may be better. You get used to the lines that the dot makes to keep your notes looking neat like you wrote on traditional lined paper, but the lack of solid lines means that you can add your drawings and doodles without harsh lines going over them. This is the kind of paper traditionally used for bullet journals (just go onto YouTube and search bullet journal for beginners if you've never heard of it. It's a great way to personalise your notes and diary).
How important is a notebook?
Personally, I say very, but not just the type of notebook but the material itself that you are writing on. The paper I use is 120gsm (traditional basic copy paper is 80gsm). This feels heavier, and smoother for writing on. I have personally tried lots of gel pens, fine liners and most importantly (for me) fountain pens as I use these every day for writing.
Whilst I cannot 100% guarantee an individual pen, I have tried so many pens and not come across any issues but if there is a specific pen or ink you want to know if it would work, please let me know with a note on here and I'll get back to you.
What size should I get?
Each notebook is made by hand so there may be a slight variation in its sizing.
The pocket notebooks are perfect for keeping by your bedside, in your bag or as a small gift for someone. They are A6 in size and have the same hard back as all others.
The A5 notebooks are ideal notebooks for longer pieces of writing. Traditionally I make these with 40-50 pages in a wire binding, but I can make them with double the amount of paper on a spiral binding which might work better if you are using them as long-term notebooks.
A4 sizes of notebook, or a custom size (B5, B6 etc) is available on request so just send me a message.
