After many years, I’m back to a pocket-sized planner: the Hobonichi Techo Weeks.
This size had always been my preference since university, because it’s easy to bring anywhere. Finding a good one wasn’t easy, and when I did…ooof, it was pricey.
Hard cover, slim, lightweight, and holds the whisper thin Tomoe River paper that can take everything from rollerballs to fountain pens and pointed calligraphy nibs without complaint.
I did bite the bullet and I have no regrets. So here we are.
My only concern was the fabric cover. I love the “antique” bookbinding look, but not the idea of collecting dirt and stains. Plastic sleeves defeats the classy feel, and most leather covers are bulky and very expensive. I can make that.
So, I did, and it had to be:
- protective
- lightweight
- slim
- doesn’t snag
- easy to spot
- easy to clean (or zero maintenance)
- reusable
I used some rose gold pebble-grain Italian leather from my stash — the same hide as my everyday bag, so I know it’s tough. For smaller pieces like this, I like using the thinner belly cuts and working with the “imperfections.” It makes each one unique. I added a deep green veg-tan accent to match the planner, leftover from another project.
Total waste: less than a square centimetre.
Small, practical, and made exactly how I like it. It’s truly gratifying when you’re picky and you can make things.
Materials used:
- Adria leather from Italy – Hand & Sew
- Maremma leather from Italy – Lonsdale Leather
- Forza thread – Lonsdale Leather
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