Paper & Sustainability Guide

Paper weight is measured in grams per square metre (gsm). Higher gsm means thicker, more substantial paper. For everyday lists and notes, 80 gsm is light and economical. For journals and meeting minutes, 90 gsm gives a smoother surface with less bleed-through from gel pens.

Artists and designers usually prefer 150 gsm or above for sketching and mixed media. The extra thickness prevents buckling under wet media and provides a more tactile drawing experience.

• 80 gsm — everyday writing, lists, internal notes
• 90 gsm — journals, planners, gel and fountain pen use
• 100 gsm — heavy planners, highlighter-heavy study notes
• 150 gsm — sketching, illustration, light watercolour

A notebook is only as good as its binding. Thread-sewn books open flat and stay intact after months of daily use. Glue-bound alternatives often shed pages once the spine cracks. We favour thread-sewn or saddle-stitched construction for anything meant to last a full year.

Covers matter too. Linen-textured board resists scuffing and hides wear better than plain card. Hardcovers protect contents in a bag, while soft kraft covers are lighter for pocket carry. Bamboo desk accessories offer a renewable alternative to plastic organisers without sacrificing function.