The 17 best notebook paper brands in 2026
Moleskine, C.R. Gibson and Rhodia lead our ranking of 17 notebook paper brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Notebook Paper brands, ranked
TSCentral is reader-supported: we may earn a commission when you shop through links on this page. It does not affect the ranking.
-
1
Moleskine
Moleskine makes notebooks, journals, and ruled and plain paper pads sold under its own name.
Website: moleskine.com |Brands like Moleskine
Popularity 10.0/10
-
2
C.R. Gibson
C.R. Gibson sells notebooks, journals, and paper stationery products for everyday and gift use.
Website: crgibson.com |Brands like C.R. Gibson
Popularity 7.1/10
-
3
Rhodia
Rhodia makes paper pads and notebooks, known for its grid and dot-ruled paper.
Website: rhodiapads.com |Brands like Rhodia
Popularity 6.0/10
-
4
Christian Lacroix
Christian Lacroix is a luxury fashion brand. Its statement is to offer distinctive, unusual, and conceptual designs. Their designs are not made for a decade but last through time to keep their value high. It is a fashion, luxury, creativity, and culture brand. The brand comprises both florals and clean, minimalist lines. The collection has classic pieces with a modern flair and simple shapes that will make you look your best no matter the occasion.
Website: christian-lacroix.com |Brands like Christian Lacroix
Popularity 5.3/10
-
5
Greenbrier International
Greenbrier International makes gift wrap, stationery, and paper goods, including notebooks and pads.
Website: greenbrierintl.com |Brands like Greenbrier International
Popularity 5.3/10
-
6
MUJI
MUJI sells plain and ruled notebooks and paper pads under its minimalist house brand.
Website: muji.us |Brands like MUJI
Popularity 4.6/10
-
7
LEGO
Kids are always busy with their toys and always try to make something new with them. That is because of the age where they want to find something creative and innovative. That is why LEGO took the responsibility of building something that can be fun as well as creative for the kids. They introduced LEGO bricks so that kids can create what they dream of and make it work. LEGO is now present all around.
Website: ideas.lego.com |Brands like LEGO
Popularity 4.6/10
-
8
LEUCHTTURM1917
LEUCHTTURM1917 makes notebooks and journals with ruled, dotted, and grid paper.
Website: leuchtturm1917.us |Brands like LEUCHTTURM1917
Popularity 4.6/10
-
9
Sanrio
Sanrio makes character-themed stationery, including notebooks and writing paper, under licensed characters.
Website: sanrio.com |Brands like Sanrio
Popularity 4.6/10
-
10
Levenger
Levenger sells notebooks, journals, and refillable paper pads alongside writing accessories.
Website: levenger.com |Brands like Levenger
Popularity 3.8/10
-
11
Papyrus
Papyrus sells greeting cards, gift wrap, and notebooks and journals under its own name.
Website: papyrusonline.com |Brands like Papyrus
Popularity 3.8/10
-
12
Eccolo
Eccolo makes notebooks, journals, and paper stationery products sold through gift and office channels.
Website: eccololtd.com |Brands like Eccolo
Popularity 3.8/10
-
13
Paperblanks
Paperblanks makes decorative hardcover journals and notebooks with ornate covers.
Website: paperblanks.com |Brands like Paperblanks
Popularity 3.8/10
-
14
Mead
Mead makes notebooks, composition books, and paper pads sold under its own name.
Website: meadmakr.com |Brands like Mead
Popularity 2.7/10
-
15
Jetoy
Jetoy makes character-themed stationery, including notebooks and notepads for students.
Website: jetoy.com |Brands like Jetoy
Popularity 2.7/10
-
16
-
17
Tri-Coastal Design
Tri-Coastal Design makes gift and stationery products, including notebooks and paper goods.
Website: tricoastaleu.com |Brands like Tri-Coastal Design
Popularity 2.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moleskine | moleskine.com | /moleskine | accounts | @moleskine | moleskineart |
| C.R. Gibson | crgibson.com | /CRGibsonGifts | c.r.gibsonbaby | – | C.R.Gibson Baby |
| Rhodia | rhodiapads.com | /Rhodia-Drive | rhodiapads | – | ExaClairUSA |
| Christian Lacroix | christian-lacroix.com | – | – | – | – |
| Greenbrier International | greenbrierintl.com | – | – | – | – |
| MUJI | muji.us | – | – | @mujiusa/ | – |
| LEGO | ideas.lego.com | – | – | – | – |
| LEUCHTTURM1917 | leuchtturm1917.us | /leuchtturm1917usa | leuchtturm1917usa | – | – |
| Sanrio | sanrio.com | /sanrio | sanrio | @sanrio | SanrioInc |
| Levenger | levenger.com | – | – | – | – |
Notebook Paper Buying Guide
Choosing the right notebook paper is essential to enhance your writing experience. Whether you are a student or a professional, the quality of paper can impact the neatness and legibility of your writing, and the overall impression you leave on others.
In this notebook paper buying guide, we will discuss the different types of notebook papers available in the market, their unique features, and tips to select the right one for your needs.
Types of Notebook Papers:
There are various types of notebook papers available in the market. Each type differs from the others in terms of quality, size, binding, perforation, and ruling. Here are some of the popular types of notebook papers:
1. College Ruled Paper:
Also known as medium-ruled paper, this paper is the most common type used for academic writing. It is usually 8.5 inches by 11 inches in size, and it has a horizontal line spacing of 9/32 inches, which is narrower than wide-ruled paper. College-ruled paper offers ample space for note-taking, essay writing, and other academic purposes.
2. Wide Ruled Paper:
This paper has a horizontal line spacing of 11/32 inches, which offers more space for writing. It is most commonly used in elementary schools for younger students, who are still learning to write and develop writing skills. Wide ruled paper usually comes in the same size as college-ruled paper - 8.5 inches by 11 inches.
3. Blank Paper:
Blank paper comes without any lines, making it perfect for sketching, drawing, and doodling. It is also a versatile paper type that can be used for writing poetry, making charts, and taking notes in meetings. However, writing on a blank paper requires greater control and stability to keep your handwriting neat and legible.
4. Graph Paper:
Also called square ruled paper, graph paper has a grid of evenly spaced squares printed on it. This paper type is ideal for creating graphs, charts, and illustrations that require accurate measurements and precise lines. Graph paper comes in various sizes and grid spacing, ranging from 4 squares per inch to 10 squares per inch.
5. Dot Grid Paper:
Dot grid paper is similar to graph paper, but it has a grid of dots instead of squares. The dots are usually evenly spaced, with a 5mm or 0.25-inch gap between them. Dot grid paper is perfect for bullet journaling, creating planner layouts, and designing creative projects that require precision and alignment.
6. Perforated Paper:
This paper type comes with a perforated edge that makes it easy to tear off pages cleanly. It is ideal for notebooks that you intend to share with others or use for school assignments. Perforated paper allows you to remove pages without damaging the notebook binding or other pages.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Notebook Paper:
When selecting a notebook paper, there are various features you should consider, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some features to look for:
1. Paper Quality:
The quality of paper determines how well the ink or pencil marks adhere to the surface, how thick or thin the paper feels, and how prone it is to smudging or bleeding. Opt for a notebook paper with a smooth and even surface that absorbs ink or graphite without smudging. Most high-quality papers are made from tree pulp or cotton, which can provide a luxurious writing experience.
2. Binding:
A notebook's binding determines how it will lay flat when opened or closed. A spiral-bound notebook will lay flat completely, while a perfect-bound notebook may require some flattening. A notebook with a hardcover or softcover can determine the durability and flexibility of the notebook. Consider the type of binding that will work best for your writing needs.
3. Perforation:
If you plan to tear off pages from your notebook, look for a paper type that has a perforated edge or a tear-away option. This can make it easier to remove pages from the notebook without creating uneven or unsightly edges.
4. Size:
The size of the notebook paper can vary, from small pocket-sized notebooks to large ones that fit in a backpack. Consider the kind of work you plan to use the notebook for and choose a size that will suit those needs. Larger notebook papers are excellent for project planning or note-taking, while smaller sizes are perfect for taking quick notes on the go.
5. Ruling:
The ruling of the paper refers to the horizontal lines or grids printed on the paper. The ruling can come in various sizes, from wide ruled to narrow ruled, and can vary in spacing. Consider your writing style and preference when choosing ruling. A narrow ruled paper can provide ample space for detailed notes or writing while wide-ruled is an excellent option for children or those with larger handwriting.
Tips to Choose the Right Notebook Paper:
Here are some tips to consider when selecting notebook paper that meets your specific needs:
1. Identify the Purpose of the Notebook:
The first step in selecting the right notebook paper is to determine the purpose of the notebook. Will it be used for school assignments, business meetings, or as a personal journal? This can help you select the right paper type and size that will suit your needs and make writing easier and more enjoyable.
2. Consider The Ink or Pen You Use:
The type of pen or ink you use can affect the quality of the writing and the paper surface. The ink can bleed through the paper or smear if not absorbed correctly. Consider the type of ink or pen you use when selecting paper quality to ensure the ink is legible and the paper does not absorb too much ink or not enough ink.
3. Look for Paper That is Thick Enough:
If you use a fountain pen, gel pen, or other ink-based pen, you'll need to choose a paper type that is thick enough not to absorb the ink entirely. A thick paper will prevent ink from smudging through the page or feathering. A thick notebook paper can also provide a luxurious writing experience since it allows the pen to glide over the surface smoothly.
4. Consider The Line Spacing:
If you use a lot of space to write or have large handwriting, consider a wide-ruled notebook paper type. If you are taking notes with detailed descriptions, opt for the narrow-ruled paper to avoid cramming information into limited space.
5. Think About The Notebook Binding:
Consider the type of binding that will work best for you. A spiral-bound notebook will lay flat entirely, while a hardcover notebook will offer more protection but may require some flattening. Choose the binding that you are more comfortable using.
Conclusion:
Selecting the right notebook paper can enhance your writing experience and make the process more enjoyable. Consider the type of paper, quality, size, ruling, binding, and perforation that will suit your needs. By following the above tips, you can choose a notebook paper that will allow you to showcase your writing skills and creativity with ease.
