Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Review

This review comes from six months of using my Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal notebook in 2018. It describes that notebook and my experience with it; newer editions may differ.

A bullet journal keeps tasks, plans, ideas, and appointments in a notebook. Ryder Carroll created the method, which he explains on the Bullet Journal website.

The official notebook I used included numbered pages, an index, and an explanation of the method at the back. Those details helped me get started without preparing every reference page myself.

Prices vary by edition and retailer. Check the current listing before deciding whether it fits your budget.

I began with a notebook from Walmart that cost about $6 at the time. It let me try the method without spending much on a system I wasn't sure I'd use.

Once I knew I liked keeping a bullet journal, I tried the official notebook.

What I Like About It

Its slim shape was easy to carry in a bag. I often took it to my children's dance lessons to write down ideas while I waited.

The A5 size suited writing on my lap and keeping the notebook open on my desk. It took up less room than the letter-size ring binder I sometimes used for work.

The numbered pages and index were useful references, although I didn't index everything. I used them when finding a page again would matter.

The dot grid lined up accurately across the pages. That was a welcome change from the offset dots in my first notebook.

The paper felt smooth and was thinner than I'd expected. It helped keep the notebook compact, but that thinness is worth considering if you use wet inks or markers.

What I Don't Like About It

I wasn't sure the higher price was worthwhile for me. I had used Moleskine notebooks for years and also enjoyed those. Compare the current editions and prices rather than assuming the official journal will suit you best.

My notebook's cover became less flat as I filled the pages. I came to like its used appearance, but it's something to consider if you prefer a notebook that stays very neat.

The warm cream paper wasn't quite the colour I prefer. When photographing my pages for Instagram, I often adjusted the white balance because I liked a brighter background.

Would I Recommend This Notebook?

I enjoyed it most as a compact writing notebook. If the feel of the paper and cover matters to you, it's worth seeing one in person before buying.

The simple cover also suited carrying it to work or taking notes away from my desk.

In this edition, some inks showed through more than I liked. Gel pens, ballpoints, and pencils worked better for me than wetter pens. I also used Pilot FriXion pens. Test your own pen on a back page before using it throughout the notebook.

For drawing and heavier ink, I preferred my Artist's Loft notebook from Michaels. The paper in the one I owned handled my markers and fountain pen better. Paper specifications can change, so compare the edition you're considering.

To try the method before choosing a notebook, print a few sheets of my free dot grid paper. Staple them into a booklet or add them to a binder you already use.

The Leuchtturm1917 was a useful notebook, though it wasn't my favourite for every kind of page.

Choose according to the way you write, the ink you use, and the size you like to carry.

You can find more comparisons and ideas in my posts about bullet journal notebooks.