The iA Notebook is a labor of love spanning several years of iterations, trials, and intensive design. We’re delighted to announce it is now ready for preorder.
The Notebook’s design had to reflect the spirit of iA Writer. Focused. Clean. The only ink you’d ever see would be your handwritten notes. We finally settled on delicate watermark guidelines. They serve as a temporary scaffold that supports your writing without distracting you. As you write, the guidelines fade into the background.
We wanted watermark guidelines that are barely noticeable, even when held against the light. After the first ten iterations, the Swiss paper makers and bookbinders said it was impossible and stopped answering our emails. So we looked to Japan.Getting the watermark guidelines just right meant lots of testing and optimization. After creating 100 prototypes and 20 test prints with our binder in Japan, we finally got it right.Before: When the light comes from above they are barely just noticeable. Ideal for guiding the pen.After: As your words come into focus, the lines fade into the background.Lines are here: On an empty page the lines are visible. Getting it just right meant finding the right combination of line thickness, ink and paper type. Good design takes time.Lines fade with text: The high contrast between ink and paper makes the lines fade. It’s noticeable here but less striking on a photograph, because a camera doesn’t see like the human eye.
The watermark guidelines direct without dominating the page. The contrast between lines and ink from your pen creates an optical illusion, causing the lines to seemingly vanish as you write. Their job is done. Your words take center stage.
Everything is made of paper. Okay, we did use a mesh and some glue too.Logo on the reverse. The Notebook is for you, not about us.
We chose our bookbinding partner for their excellence of their past work and deep interest in product design. They’re not a supplier but a true partner that actively contributed to the finished product.
Pages: 142
Size: A5
Ships from: Tokyo, Japan
Shipping cost: Depends on your country. Order three or more for free shipping.
Taxes: VAT not included. Import taxes and local tariffs may apply.
Each Notebook is handcrafted and delivered in batches. The first batch is scheduled to ship in July, 2024.
