There are two kinds of people in this world: notebook-lovers and other people. What do those “other people” do? Write things on their necks? I have no idea. I am not one of them and, frankly, I don’t attempt to unpack their pathological hatred of stationary. For I, you see, am a notebook-lover. I am a notebook-lovah, as Rachel Dratch and Will Ferrell would say. And I like my notebooks not only to be full of pages, but to be nice to look at as well. In Scandinavia, it’s a combination that isn’t too hard to find.
Although I’m a minimalist, one thing I don’t seem to mind piling up, in beautiful, neat little piles around the apartment and office, are notebooks. Notebooks are really just books that haven’t been written yet, so I consider owning many of them the same as owning many books. Essentially, I own a blank library!
If you’re like me (or if you just need a single notebook, like a normal), take a look at these beauties:
Playtype
They’re colourful, they’re simple and they’re covered in fabulous fonts from the e-types foundry. Their small notebooks come in packs of three and are easy to throw in your bag or back pocket.
Nomess
True minimalism in notebook form. We love Nomess for their organisational products and these notebooks are slim enough to fit anywhere yet colorful or textural enough so that they don’t get lost on a shelf or in your bag. Their “Left/Right Notebook” for each side of your brain is a fun way to jot down your creative vs. practical thoughts.
Normann Copenhagen
An interior design company that produces large furniture as well as smaller home goods, Normann Copenhagen does not evoke visions of stationary to most. They are changing all that with “Daily Fiction,” the new collection produced in collaboration with design agency Femmes Régionales that includes an extensive line of notebooks and other office goods. Simple and well-made, with a range of colors and graphic patterns.
Hamide Design Studio
These handmade notebooks are really special – just like the design studio that creates them so lovingly. Because everything is made by hand, they’re all limited edition.
kikki.k
Beloved Swedish stationary brand kikki.k has been creating beautiful products for years, including gorgeous notebooks and journals. The products often containing helpful or inspiring messages but the top-notch typography means it never runs to “cutesy.”
Darling Clementine
Scandinavian in a different way; Darling Clementine isn’t about minimalism but rather is inspired by traditional Norwegian designs and nature. The lovely, whimsical patterns are great for kids and adults alike.
Header image: Nomess Copenhagen
Have a notebook you love? Tell us about it in the comments!