Best Notebooks for Bullet Journaling
Bullet journaling has become a popular method for organizing tasks, thoughts, and creative expressions. Choosing the right notebook is crucial to the journaling experience, as it affects both functionality and aesthetics. Here’s a detailed guide to the best notebooks for bullet journaling, focusing on key features, pros, and cons.
1. Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Dotted Notebook
- Features: 251 numbered pages, 8 perforated sheets, table of contents, and index. The paper weight is 80gsm, and it has a variety of color options.
- Pros: The dotted grid is perfect for creating layouts. The paper is thick enough to prevent bleed-through with most pens. Additionally, it has a durable cover and an elastic closure.
- Cons: Some users find it slightly heavy for carrying daily.
2. Moleskine Classic Dotted Notebook
- Features: Available in sizes from pocket to large, it employs quality 70gsm paper with a classic rounded bookmark. It has an elastic closure and an expandable inner pocket.
- Pros: The sleek design is appealing, and the dotted pages allow for versatile layouts. Many users appreciate its smooth paper texture, making it a joy to write on.
- Cons: The paper is thinner than some prefer, which may lead to ghosting with certain inks.
3. Rhodia Webnotebook
- Features: Comes in A5 size, with an orange or black cover. The notebook contains 96 sheets of high-quality, acid-free 90gsm paper, available in dotted, lined, or blank layouts.
- Pros: Rhodia’s paper is fountain pen-friendly and reduces bleed-through, making it ideal for elaborate designs and colorful inks.
- Cons: The cover can be prone to scratches and scuffs.
4. Scribbles That Matter Notebook
- Features: This notebook has 192 numbered pages with a 160gsm paper weight, offering a high-quality experience for writers and artists alike. It features a key and legend page and 2 bookmarks.
- Pros: The paper quality is excellent for handling markers and ink without bleed-through. The grid layout allows for organized designs.
- Cons: Limited color options may deter some users.
5. Arteza Dotted Journals
- Features: Featuring 160 pages of 160gsm paper, these journals have a dotted layout, available in various colors, and come with a pen holder.
- Pros: The thick paper is perfect for mixed media, offering durability against watercolor and markers. The price point is among the most affordable.
- Cons: Some might find the aesthetic less professional compared to more classic options.
6. Nero’s Notes Handcrafted Journals
- Features: These journals are handcrafted, with 160 pages of high-quality paper in a travel-friendly size. The binding allows for flexible use.
- Pros: Each journal has a unique design, making them aesthetically pleasing. The paper is thick enough for various inks.
- Cons: Handmade variations may lead to inconsistencies in size and finish.
7. Pioneer Dotted Journal
- Features: This budget-friendly journal has 180 pages of thick 120gsm paper, perfect for heavy ink users. The binding allows it to lay flat.
- Pros: The affordability makes it an attractive option for beginners. The paper quality stands up well against ink bleed.
- Cons: Lacks advanced features like pre-printed index pages and numbered sheets.
8. Stalogy 368 Bullet Journal
- Features: This notebook features 368 pages of 81gsm paper, designed for writing experience. The pages are lightly dotted for flexibility in layout.
- Pros: Unique paper quality supports smooth writing, ideal for users who do not want to worry about bleed-through. The minimalist design is good for distraction-free journaling.
- Cons: It has fewer colors and design options, which may not appeal to all.
9. Moleskine Art Plus Sketchbook
- Features: Available in numerous sizes, it features a thick page of 200gsm for sketching and mixed-media use.
- Pros: Ideal for artists who like to combine drawing and journaling. The heavy paper supports various mediums without bleed-through.
- Cons: It may be overkill for someone who only writes and sketches lightly.
10. The Happy Planner Classic
- Features: This disc-bound planner features interchangeable pages, allowing users to customize their layout easily. Paper weight is often 90gsm.
- Pros: Offers a unique, customizable experience and beautifully designed covers. The disc system allows for easy page removal and reorganization.
- Cons: It’s bulkier than traditional notebooks, which might not appeal to those who prefer a minimalist approach.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bullet Journal Notebook
- Paper Quality: Look for notebooks with paper that reduces bleed-through and offers a smooth writing experience.
- Binding Type: Spiral-bound, thread-bound, and disc-bound all have different pros and cons regarding flexibility and usability.
- Page Layout: Dotted, lined, or blank pages provide different experiences; choose based on your style.
- Size: Consider portability versus usability. Larger notebooks may offer more room but can be cumbersome to carry.
- Additional Features: Items like pre-printed indexes, numbered pages, and bookmarks can enhance the journaling experience.
Popular Accessories for Bullet Journaling
Apart from choosing the right notebook, investing in quality accessories can elevate your bullet journaling practice. Consider high-quality pens, washi tape, stickers, and stencils to make journaling more creative.
Choosing the right bullet journal notebook involves personal preference and the specific requirements of your journaling style. Whether you prioritize paper quality, design, or functionality, the included options cater to a variety of tastes and needs.
