Hi there, I’m Eric, the founder and owner of The Kilted Leatherworker LLC. If you’re anything like me, there’s a certain magic in a fresh notebook and the smell of real, high-quality leather. There is something about sitting down at a desk: or on a fallen log in the middle of the woods: and opening up a cover that you know was built to last a lifetime.
Over the years, I’ve found that the most common question I get at market days or through my contact page isn’t just about the type of hide I use, but about the size. People often ask, "Eric, should I go with the A5 or the pocket size?"
It’s a fair question. Choosing a leather notebook cover is an investment. It’s not just a sleeve for paper; it’s a companion for your thoughts, your sketches, and your daily "to-do" lists. Whether you’re a heavy-duty journaler or someone who just needs to jot down a grocery list, the size you choose changes the way you interact with your thoughts.
Let’s dive into the comparison and help you figure out which one belongs in your gear bag.
The A5 Journal: The Gold Standard for Writers
When people think of a "proper" journal, they are usually thinking of the A5 size. Measuring roughly 5.8 x 8.3 inches, it’s what many call the "Golden Mean." It’s large enough to provide a substantial writing surface but small enough to tuck into a messenger bag or a backpack without taking up the whole space.
I personally love crafting our Handcrafted Leather Journal Cover in this size. When I’m working on an A5 cover, I’m thinking about the person who has a lot to say. Maybe you’re a bullet journaler, or maybe you’re working through some big ideas for a new business.
Why the A5 Might Be Your Perfect Match
The biggest benefit of an A5 journal cover is the real estate. You don't have to cram your handwriting or worry about running out of room halfway through a thought. It’s the ideal choice for:
- Desk Work: If your journal stays mostly on your desk or moves from your office to your kitchen table, the A5 is king.
- Deep Reflection: If you’re using your journal for long-form writing or "Morning Pages," you’ll appreciate the space.
- Durability and Feel: Because the A5 is a bit larger, you really get to feel the weight and quality of the hide. In my shop, I ensure that every stitch is perfect, and on an A5 cover, that hand-stitching really shines.
I often use a distressed tan finish for these. As you use it, the leather picks up the oils from your hands and develops a patina that tells the story of your year. You can read more about why a leather journal cover actually protects your pages in one of my previous posts.
The Pocket Size: The "Go-Anywhere" Companion
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the pocket size (often compatible with Field Notes or Moleskine Cahiers). These usually measure around 3.5 x 5.5 inches.
I call our version the Mini Leather Journal Cover. Little did I know when I first started making these just how popular they would become. They are designed for the person who is always on the move. If you’re the type of person who gets their best ideas while hiking or waiting in line at the coffee shop, this is the one for you.
The Benefits of Going Small
The pocket-sized leather journal cover is all about portability. It fits in a back pocket, a jacket pocket, or even a small clutch.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): This is the ultimate EDC item. It’s lightweight and doesn't feel like a chore to carry.
- Versatility: My mini covers often include extra slots. I like to design them with pockets for business cards, credit cards, and even a bit of cash. It essentially becomes a hybrid between a wallet and a notebook.
- Quick Notes: Great for grocery lists, phone numbers, or that sudden spark of inspiration that you’ll forget if you don’t write it down immediately.
There is a ruggedness to the mini cover that I really enjoy. Because it’s smaller, it tends to get tossed around more: into glove boxes, pockets, and toolkits. That’s why I use reinforced craftsmanship to ensure it can handle the "adventure" part of its job.
Head-to-Head: A Quick Comparison
To help you visualize the difference, let’s look at how they stack up:
| Feature | A5 Journal Cover | Mini (Pocket) Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Daily journaling, planning, desk work | EDC, quick notes, travel, lists |
| Portability | Fits in bags/backpacks | Fits in pockets/small bags |
| Writing Space | High - plenty of room for sketches | Low - best for brief thoughts |
| Weight | Substantial and sturdy | Lightweight and slim |
| Vibe | Professional / Reflective | Adventurous / Practical |
Why Handmade Leather Goods Matter
Regardless of the size you choose, why go with leather? And specifically, why handmade leather goods?
In a world of mass-produced plastic and "genuine leather" (which is often just scraps glued together), a truly handmade cover stands apart. When I make a cover, I’m selecting the hide, hand-cutting the pieces, and using a saddle stitch. If you’ve ever had a machine-stitched item fall apart, you know that once one thread breaks, the whole thing unspools. With my hand-stitching, each stitch is independent. It’s built to survive.
Choosing a handmade leather notebook cover means you’re getting something unique. No two hides are exactly the same, and as they age, they become even more personal. I’ve written before about 7 mistakes people make with handmade leather and how to avoid them to ensure your gear lasts decades.
How to Decide: Ask Yourself These 3 Questions
If you’re still on the fence, I usually tell my customers to think about these three things:
- Where will I use this most? If the answer is "at my desk with a cup of coffee," go A5. If the answer is "while I'm out and about," go Pocket.
- How big is my handwriting? If you have large, expressive handwriting, you will find a pocket-sized notebook frustrating very quickly.
- What else do I want to carry? If you want your notebook to replace your wallet, the Mini Leather Journal Cover is a fantastic choice. If you want it to hold a full-sized fountain pen and several documents, the A5 is your best bet.
Wrapping Up the Journey
Whether you choose the expansive A5 or the nimble Pocket size, you’re making a choice to value your thoughts. Putting pen to paper is a powerful thing, and doing it inside a cover made by hand: one step at a time: just makes the experience better.
I’m so grateful that I get to spend my days in the shop creating these items for you. If you’re curious about how I got started in this craft, feel free to check out my leatherworking journey.
Thank you for supporting small businesses and for taking the time to read my thoughts today. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect fit for your next adventure. If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to reach out!
Warmly,
Eric
Founder, The Kilted Leatherworker LLC