Write Notepads & Co “Lined Notebook” (Wire-bound)

Write Notepads & Co “Lined Notebook” (Wire-bound)

I purchased this notebook on the recommendation of The Gentleman Stationer.  When the product appeared in the article, “The Best Paper for Everyday Writing,” I decided to give them a try.  While I can’t recommend the notebook without caveats (see below), there is definitely a lot to like here.  Will it replace Tomoe River as my paper of choice for fountain pens?  Read on to find out.

Basic Info:

  • Price: $20 USD / notebook, bulk discounts available
  • Paper Type:70 GSM “bleed and feather resistant” paper
  • Format: Lined (also available in dot grid and “meeting” format)
  • Pages: 120

Pros:

  • Wire binding means that the notebook is truly “lay flat.”  This also means that the notebook can easily be folded over and act as its own writing surface
  • Paper lives up to its promise of being bleed and feather resistant; I tested it across a wide variety of inks (though the widest nib grade I regularly use is M, so take that for what you will)
  • Cover is subtly designed and aesthetically pleasing
  • Notebook offers a larger size than the typical A5, meaning it may be a good fit for those looking for something about as portable as an A5 with a few more inches to write on
  • Notebook comes in a variety of formats and colors.  I bought one in “black” and “kraft.”  I seriously considered buying one in “pistacio” as well, but ultimately decided against it (because I have so many notebooks, lol)

Cons:

  • The wire binding can be uncomfortable under the hand, especially after a long writing session
  • Paper doesn’t bring out the “magic” of inks like Tomoe River, and is a bit, “toothier,” as well.
  • The covers (especially the back cover) frayed over time, despite the notebook rarely leaving the house (what with the global pandemic).  There were no catastrophic failures, but it makes me wonder how well the notebook would hold up under more strenuous testing
  • The unusual size means it’ll require a custom cover (if that’s your jam)
  • A few of the metal rings bent a bit.  Again, there were no catastrophic failures and the notebook is still functioning as intended (save the last couple of pages, which are harder to turn), but it raises concerns of durability

Conclusion:

There’s a lot to like about this notebook. While the paper hasn’t dethroned Tomoe River as my “go-to” choice for fountain pens, it’s plays well enough with my pens and inks that I haven’t minded using it as a daily driver. There are some things I would change (I wish they offered an A5 version) and some things that require trade-offs compared to other notebooks (e.g. the binding style), but it’s done its job admirably. If you’re not a fan of Tomoe River or if you want to try something different, this product is worth a look.

Check it out here.

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