Journals and planners are more than books filled with blank or structured pages. They are products designed to be used regularly, carried from place to place, written in, and sometimes kept for years. Because of this, the printing, paper, binding, and finishing choices can have a significant impact on how the finished product looks, feels, and performs.
At Sure Print & Design, we print a wide range of journals, planners, notebooks, workbooks, and other writing-focused books. Whether you're creating a simple lined notebook, a guided journal, or a detailed planner, choosing the right specifications is an important part of creating a finished product that meets your needs.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the key considerations when preparing a journal or planner for print.
What Are Journals and Planners Used For?
Before choosing your paper or binding, consider how the finished book will be used.
A simple notebook with lined pages has different requirements than a detailed daily planner filled with calendars, schedules, checklists, and writing sections. A guided journal may include prompts throughout the book, while a specialized planner may need additional space for handwriting, notes, stickers, or other personal additions.
Think about questions such as:
- Will the book be used every day?
- Does it need to open flat while the user writes?
- Will it be carried around frequently?
- Does it need to withstand heavy use?
- Will users be writing on both sides of the page?
- Is the book intended to be practical, premium, or somewhere in between?
Answering these questions can help determine which paper and binding options are best suited to your project.
Popular Bindings for Journals and Planners
Binding is particularly important for journals and planners because the user will often need to write across the page or keep the book open while working.
Many journals and planners are designed with some degree of lay-flat capability, making them easier and more comfortable to use. However, different binding styles offer different levels of flexibility and durability.
Here are some popular binding options to consider:
Flexibinding
Flexibinding offers the look and feel of a hardcover book while using a flexible cover instead of rigid greyboard. This helps reduce the overall weight while still providing more protection than a traditional paperback.
Flexibound books can provide a premium appearance and are well suited to journals, notebooks, and other products that are intended for frequent use. Depending on the design, options can include square or rounded spines and rounded corners.
Hardcover Smyth Sewn
For a more durable and premium option, hardcover Smyth sewn binding is an excellent choice for journals and planners that are designed for long-term use.
Smyth sewing connects individual sections of the book with thread before they are bound together. This provides added durability and allows the book to open more naturally than a traditional perfect-bound book.
Hardcover journals can also be customized with materials such as cloth, linen, or vegan leather to create a distinctive and timeless appearance.
Wire-O Binding
Wire-O binding uses a series of metal loops to hold the pages together. One of its biggest advantages is its ability to open completely flat and, in many cases, fold back on itself.
This makes Wire-O particularly practical for planners, workbooks, notebooks, exercise books, and other products that need to stay open while being used.
Wire-O books can be produced with either a cardstock cover or a more rigid hardcover, depending on the desired appearance and durability.
Coil Binding
Coil binding uses a continuous plastic coil to hold the pages together. Like Wire-O, it allows the book to open flat and can also be folded back on itself.
Coil binding is a practical choice for journals, notebooks, workbooks, and planners that will be used frequently. It is generally produced with a cardstock cover, making it a flexible and functional softcover option.
Saddle Stitch Binding
Saddle stitch binding is one of the simplest and most economical binding methods. Folded sheets are gathered together and secured through the fold with wire staples.
Because of its construction, saddle stitch binding works best for thinner books and is commonly used for shorter planners, notebooks, booklets, and exercise books. It also provides a natural degree of lay-flat functionality.
Choosing the Right Paper
Paper selection is another important consideration for journals and planners.
Since these products are designed for writing, the interior paper should be selected based on the type of pen, pencil, marker, or other writing tool that will be used.
For example, if the journal is primarily intended for ballpoint pens or pencils, a standard uncoated text stock may be suitable. If users will be writing heavily on both sides of the page, you may want to consider a paper weight and opacity that help minimize show-through.
If you're unsure which paper is best for your project, consider ordering or reviewing printed samples before making a final decision.
Accessories and Add-Ons
The right accessories can add both functionality and perceived value to a journal or planner.
Belly Bands
A belly band is a printed strip of paper that wraps around the outside of a book. It can be used to display additional information, branding, promotional messaging, or simply enhance the presentation of the finished product.
Ribbon Bookmarks
A ribbon bookmark is a practical addition to hardcover and flexibound journals. It allows users to easily mark their place without needing a separate bookmark.
Elastic Closures
Elastic closures are a popular choice for planners, notebooks, and journals. The strap wraps around the book to help keep it closed when it is being carried or stored.
Pen Holders
A pen holder can be added to a journal or planner to give users a convenient place to keep a pen or pencil. An elastic holder can be matched to the overall design of the book for a coordinated look.
Book Sleeves and Boxes
For premium journals, gift sets, or collections, a custom book sleeve or box can add another level of presentation and protection.
Print Your Journal or Planner with Sure Print & Design
Whether you're creating a simple lined journal, a guided journal, a professional planner, or a full-colour productivity book, choosing the right printing specifications can make a significant difference in the finished product.
At Sure Print & Design, we work with self-publishers, businesses, organizations, and other customers to produce journals, planners, notebooks, workbooks, and other custom books. From paper and binding to cover finishing and print quantities, there are many ways to customize your project.
Not sure where to start? Our team can help you explore the available options and determine specifications that suit your project, intended use, and budget.
Ready to print your journal or planner? Contact us to discuss your project and get started!