(Updated 2025)
A leather journal cover is more than simple protection for your notebook — it’s a long-term companion for writing, sketching, planning, and documenting your life. A well-crafted cover enhances your daily workflow, protects your pages, and ages beautifully over time. At Craft & Antler Co., each cover is handcrafted in Canada using full-grain Pueblo, Crazy Horse, Tochigi, and other premium leathers loved for their texture, durability, and patina.
Whether you prefer a refillable design, a minimalist wrap, or a more structured notebook feel, this guide will help you choose the perfect leather journal cover — along with creative binding ideas to personalize your writing setup.
1. Choose a Journal Cover That Fits Your Writing Style
Before comparing materials or sizes, think about how you use your journal. This helps narrow down the best cover style.
For everyday carry:
Look for slim, lightweight, durable leathers (Pueblo, Tochigi, Crazy Horse) and a compact A6 or A5 size.
For work or meetings:
A structured cover with pockets for cards, notes, or loose papers may be ideal.
For creative journaling or sketching:
Choose a slightly roomier cover so you can insert thicker notebooks or specialty inserts.
Explore our handcrafted leather journal covers to see options made for everyday carry, travel, and creative planning.
2. Consider the Leather: Texture, Durability & Aging
The quality of the leather determines how your journal cover feels, wears, and patinas. Full-grain leather is the strongest part of the hide and looks better with use — not worse.
Pueblo Leather
- Velvety matte texture
- Rich, dramatic patina over time
- Beautiful colour depth
Crazy Horse Leather
- Rustic, rugged look
- Highly durable
- Scratch-friendly, ages with character
Tochigi Leather (Japan)
- Smooth, refined, traditional vegetable tan
- Clean edges and a warm patina
- Ideal for minimalists
All of these leathers develop unique markings and soften with use, becoming more personal the longer you carry them.
3. Choosing the Right Size (A5 vs A6)
Size matters — especially when planning your everyday carry.
A5 Leather Journal Covers (148 × 210 mm)
Best for: writers, planners, professionals, students
- Lots of writing space
- Fits popular notebook brands
- Balanced for travel + desk use
Explore our A5 leather journal covers
A6 Leather Journal Covers (105 × 148 mm)
Best for: minimalists, pocket carry, travel journaling
- Ultra-portable
- Easy to carry everywhere
- Perfect for on-the-go notes
Explore our A6 leather journal covers
If you’re unsure which size is right, A5 is the most popular all-around choice, while A6 is ideal for compact mobility.
4. Refillable or Permanent Binding — Which Is Better?
Most leather journal covers fall into one of two styles:
Refillable Leather Journal Covers
- Designed to last a lifetime
- Allows notebook replacement
- More sustainable
- Cost-effective long term
This is the style used in most Craft & Antler Co. covers.
Fixed-Binding Leather Covers
- Notebook is stitched directly in
- Slim and clean appearance
- Less flexible over time
Refillable covers give you more freedom and better long-term usability.
5. Creative Binding Ideas for Personalizing Your Leather Journal
A leather journal cover becomes even more functional with your preferred binding method. Here are a few ideas:
Elastic Band Binding
Simple, secure, and perfect for travelers who want to swap inserts easily.
Three-Bungee Binding (Traveler’s Notebook Style)
Allows you to carry multiple notebooks — ideal for journaling, planning, sketching, and daily notes all in one setup.
Flap-Wrap Binding
A stylish wrap-around look that protects edges and adds character.
Strap or Button Closure
Keeps everything compact while adding a classic aesthetic.
Minimalist No-Stitch Designs
Clean silhouettes with tight burnished edges for a modern, sleek feel.
6. Features to Look For in a High-Quality Leather Journal Cover
When investing in a journal cover, pay attention to:
- Full-grain leather (strongest grade)
- Hand-burnished edges
- Thoughtful pocket layout
- Strong stitching or reinforced seams
- Refillable interior design
- Quality closures (strap, bungee, or elastic)
- Craftsmanship and finishing
These elements determine how well your journal cover will perform for years.
7. Final Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Journal Cover
Ask yourself:
- Do I want a journal that lasts decades? → Choose full-grain leather.
- Do I want portability? → Go A6.
- Do I need more writing space? → Go A5.
- Do I want to add pockets or multiple inserts? → Choose a refillable cover.
- Do I want a unique patina? → Choose Pueblo or Crazy Horse.
Your journal should support your writing lifestyle, not limit it.
Explore Handcrafted Leather Journal Covers Made in Canada
Discover timeless leather covers designed for writing, planning, creativity, and travel — crafted by hand in our Canadian workshop.
Browse our leather journal covers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a full-grain leather journal cover last?
With proper care, decades — full-grain leather is the strongest part of the hide and only gets better with age.
Can I replace the notebook inside a leather journal cover?
Yes — all Craft & Antler Co. journal covers are fully refillable.
Which size should I choose, A5 or A6?
A5 offers generous writing space, while A6 is compact and great for pockets or travel.
What’s the best leather for a journal cover?
Pueblo, Tochigi, and Crazy Horse are excellent choices depending on the texture and patina you prefer.
Will my leather journal cover stretch?
Full-grain leather will soften slightly but won’t lose its structure when crafted properly.