Stationery Guide: High-Quality Notebooks and Art Supplies

The selection of stationery can be overwhelming. Whether for the office, university, or creative projects, the right materials can boost productivity and inspire creativity. Many users look for products that are not only functional but also durable and aesthetically pleasing. This guide will help you make an informed decision by explaining essential quality features and presenting a selection of products for various applications.

What to Look for When Buying Stationery?

To find the right products for your needs, it helps to know a few basic criteria. Instead of being swayed by marketing promises, focus on the material properties and craftsmanship.

The Importance of Paper Weight and Surface

Paper is the heart of any notebook. Its quality is often measured in grams per square metre (g/m?).

• 80 g/m? Paper: This is a standard weight, well-suited for everyday notes with ballpoint pens or pencils. It is lightweight and flexible, making it a great choice for school supplies or quick notes as part of your office supplies.
• 100 g/m? or more: Thicker paper offers a smoother writing experience and reduces ink ghosting and bleeding. It is highly recommended if you use fountain pens, fineliners, or markers. For a diary or for journaling accessories, this paper weight is often the better choice.

Cover Type: Hardcover vs. Softcover

The cover not only protects the pages but also defines the notebook's feel and durability.

• Hardcover Notebook: A rigid cover offers maximum protection for the pages and provides a sturdy writing surface, even without a desk. It is excellent for important records or as a diary intended to be used for years.
• Softcover Notebook: A flexible cover makes the notebook lighter and more pliable. It's easier to tuck into a bag and is ideal for on-the-go use. A stitched binding often ensures the notebook lies flat, making it easier to write across the entire two-page spread.

Specialty Pens for Creatives: More Than Just Ink

For artistic applications, a simple pen is often not enough. This is where specialised art supplies come into play.

• Watercolour Pencils: These pencils are extremely versatile. They can be used dry like regular coloured pencils or blended with water to create watercolour effects. When choosing watercolour pencils, such as those offered by STAEDTLER, high pigmentation and lightfastness are important quality indicators. They make an excellent gift idea for creatives.

Our Recommended Stationery Picks

Based on the criteria above, we have curated a selection of products that stand out for their material quality and thoughtful design.

Jubiluu A5 Floral Fabric Hardcover Lined Notebook

Why it stands out: This A5hardcover notebook combines functionality with an appealing design. The fabric cover is adorned with floral motifs and finishes like foil stamping or debossing. Inside, you'll find 96 sheets (192 pages) of lined, ivory-coloured paper with a weight of 100 g/m?, ensuring a pleasant writing experience with minimal ink ghosting.

Pros:

• Sturdy fabric hardcover
• High-quality, 100 g/m? paper
• Integrated features: ribbon bookmark and elastic closure
• Elegant design with embossed details

Who is it for? Ideal for those looking to buy a stylish diary, for creative writing, journaling, or as a professional notebook for personal and business use. It also makes a thoughtful gift idea for creatives.

Jubiluu A5 Softcover 3-Pack Stitch Notebook

Why it stands out: This set includes three lightweight, A5 softcover notebooks. The stitched binding allows them to open completely flat, making writing very comfortable. Each notebook contains 50 sheets (100 pages) of cream-coloured, lined paper with a weight of 80 g/m?. The set is available in various designs, from minimalist to floral.

Pros:

• Convenient 3-pack for different projects or subjects
• Lightweight and flexible for portability
• Stitched binding for a lay-flat design
• Suitable for everyday school supplies and office supplies

Who is it for? Perfect for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a lightweight, straightforward notebook for daily use, meetings, or organising projects.

STAEDTLER Karat Watercolour Pencil 125-302 Pastel Blue

Why it stands out: The STAEDTLER pencils from the Karat series are known for their professional quality. This pastel blue watercolour pencil features a highly pigmented, water-soluble lead. It can be applied dry and then blended with a brush and water to create soft colour transitions and watercolour effects. According to the manufacturer, the pencil is characterised by high lightfastness and a break-resistant lead. The wood is sourced from certified, sustainably managed forests.

Pros:

• Versatile for both wet and dry techniques
• Highly pigmented, water-soluble lead
• Excellent blendability for smooth gradients
• Wood from sustainable forestry

Who is it for? This pencil is a great addition to the art supplies of hobby artists, illustrators, and designers who want to experiment with different techniques.

Discover More Options for Creatives

If you are specifically looking for drawing and painting materials, such as soft pastels, our range offers further possibilities. Discover high-quality materials for your next art project.

Discover our selection of soft pastels

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered stationery?

The term stationery covers a wide range of products. This includes paper goods like notebooks, notepads, and exercise books; writing instruments like pens, fountain pens, and markers; organisational tools like folders and binders; and accessories like erasers, sharpeners, and rulers. Art supplies, such as paints, brushes, and specialty papers, are also often included in this category.

What paper is suitable for a diary or journaling?

For a diary or for journaling, paper with a weight of at least 100 g/m? is recommended. This thickness prevents ink from fountain pens or fineliners from ghosting or bleeding through. An A5 hardcover notebook is a popular choice as it is durable and a convenient size for daily use.

Are watercolour pencils suitable for beginners?

Yes, watercolour pencils are very suitable for beginners as they bridge the gap between drawing and painting. You can start by using them like regular coloured pencils to get familiar with how they handle. Then, you can gradually experiment with water and a brush to learn watercolour techniques without having to invest in a full set of watercolour paints right away.