Life Japanese Stationery Vermilion Notebook B6 - Ruled

Before picking up this notebook, I'd never heard of the B6 size. Small enough to go in a cargo pocket (let's face it, any notebook will fit in a purse or a knapsack), but large enough that your notes, drawings, lists etc. don't feel cramped. The paper feels smooth and fountain-pen friendly at first, and for the most part, it stays that way. With some pen-and-ink combinations, it can feel almost TOO smooth; the nib slips and slides all over the page like a car on an icy road. When this happened, I had to slow down and focus excessively on the shape of each individual character. It interfered with my train of thought and the writing seemed forced. With other pens and inks, it felt like the opposite; the paper felt almost grabby. Ultimately a nicely proportioned, easy-to-carry notebook with paper that almost rivals Rhodia for quality. The only thing: I'm not so sure on this cream/ivory paper. I prefer white. Finding it in this nice B6 size, however, was a bit of a challenge.

I got addicted to these notebooks while living in Japan, and was SO thrilled to find them at Wonder Pens when I randomly stumbled into their Leslieville store one day. These notebooks are PERFECT! B6 is the best size for a handbag/pocket/daybag notebook. More room than an ultra-minimal Field Notes, say, but still less to manage than a Moleskine. The design is beautiful and invites you to make it your own. The paper is a very satisfying color and feel. It stays open on the page you want it to. Love these notebooks.