With the Kyoto layflat notebook quickly becoming a best seller, we take you behind the scenes with how it was created...
First, the artwork was created by hand using foliage dipped in thick ink. Initially, there were no set plans for what this could be used for and the design came from experimenting with various print techniques. In early stages, the print was considered for a wall print before being arranged to suit a wrap-around cover design.
When searching for the perfect paper stock, darker shades were ruled out to ensure enough contrast. Natural shades were considered and compared in fine detail - not too bright white, not too cream or yellow. Sustainability, quality, thickness, durability, surface 'feel' and aesthetics defined the criteria.
Two options were shortlisted and created into cover tests by our manufacturer. It was important to see and feel the cover paper at the size and thickness it would be used at in order to get as close as possible to the experience of using it. Both were considered against our chosen shade of writing paper - a cream Munken sheet, as well chosen covers for other notebooks to ensure harmony within the range.
The final choice stood out sustainably against similar and equally beautiful options - created from recycled coffee cups with the plastic removed and available in just the right muted Ivory shade.
Finally, an embossed texture was introduced. We're always drawn to how textures and surfaces elevate the experience of everyday things. The subtle layer of texture blends beautifully with the natural forms of the artwork and adds a distinctive sensory dimension to the cover.
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This softcover notebook includes 128 ruled Munken smooth pages and is bound with specialist Layflat binding. It is sustainably created using vegetable inks by a UK-based zero-emissions supplier.
Shop the Kyoto notebook here
