Worth checking out
Shop Leatherpress leather notebooks
If you like the gift-box presentation, leather cover, numbered pages, and narrow ruled layout shown in this review, check current Leatherpress Classic Leather Notebook options on Amazon.
Quick verdict
The Leatherpress notebook is at its best as a premium-feeling gift journal: the packaging is gorgeous, the leather covers look and feel special, and the numbered pages/table of contents make it more practical than a decorative notebook. It is not a specialist fountain-pen paper notebook, but as a leather writing journal it has a lot of charm.
This Leatherpress notebook review looks at two different leather journals from the range, including the presentation box, the leather cover, page layout, writing sample, and the overall feel in hand. The first thing that stands out is the packaging. These arrive in a way that feels intentionally giftable, with stitched presentation boxes and a little pull strap for lifting the notebook out.
That matters because a leather notebook is rarely just about paper. It is also about the object itself: how it feels when you open it, whether it looks good on a desk, and whether it feels like something you would enjoy using every day. Leatherpress clearly leans into that premium journal feeling.
Design and leather cover
The reviewed notebooks are described as genuine leather, made with South African leather. The tan version has a warm classic look, while the darker notebook feels a little more formal. The pebbled texture is especially nice up close because it gives the cover character without looking overly busy.
The stitching, elastic closure, and simple branding keep the design clean. It does not feel like a novelty journal; it feels like a practical notebook dressed up in a more premium cover. If you like leather goods, that tactile side is probably the main reason this notebook will appeal.
Paper and writing experience
The paper is narrow ruled and set up for normal writing rather than sketching or heavy ink work. In the writing sample, it looks perfectly usable for everyday journaling, lists, notes, and work writing. The notebook also includes practical structure: numbered pages and a table of contents, which is useful if you like indexing entries or using a notebook for projects.
I would not buy this expecting Tomoe River-style fountain pen performance. The Leatherpress is more about the leather journal experience than specialist paper. For gel pens, ballpoints, pencil, and normal everyday writing, though, it makes sense.
| Feature | Review notes | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging | Stitched presentation box, pull tab, strong unboxing feel. | Excellent for gifting |
| Cover | Genuine leather with a pebbled texture and clean branding. | Premium and tactile |
| Paper | Narrow ruled everyday writing paper with numbered pages. | Good for notes/journaling |
| Structure | Table of contents and numbered pages help with organization. | Useful practical touch |
| Best for | Gift journals, work notes, personal journaling, desk notebook use. | Strong fit |
Two versions shown
The darker notebook has a slightly more professional look, while the tan version feels warmer and more classic. Both are attractive, and the choice really comes down to style. The black version might suit work or a desk setup; the tan version feels more like a personal journal.
Side by side, they make the Leatherpress range feel polished. These are the sort of notebooks that would make sense as graduation gifts, work gifts, or a personal journal upgrade for someone who likes leather stationery.
Pros
- Beautiful gift-ready packaging
- Genuine leather cover with premium texture
- Numbered pages and table of contents add practical value
- Clean, classic styling
- Good option for journaling, notes, and work writing
Cons
- Not aimed at specialist fountain pen paper users
- Leather styling may not suit vegan buyers
- Paper is practical rather than exceptional
- Exact colour/model availability can vary
Who is it for?
This is a good pick if you want a notebook that feels more special than a standard hardcover journal. It is also a sensible gift because the presentation does a lot of the work before the notebook is even opened. If the person receiving it likes leather accessories, classic desk stationery, or structured journaling, Leatherpress is a strong match.
If your only priority is paper performance, there are better niche notebooks. But if you want a leather-covered journal that looks premium, writes well enough for everyday use, and feels giftable, this one makes sense.
FAQ
Is the Leatherpress notebook good as a gift?
Yes. The packaging and presentation are a major strength, and the notebook feels much more gift-ready than a basic journal.
Does it use real leather?
The reviewed notebooks are described as genuine South African leather, including a pebbled full-grain leather cover.
Is the paper fountain-pen friendly?
It works for normal writing, but I would not treat it as a specialist fountain pen notebook. Buy it for the leather journal experience first.
What practical features does it have?
The version shown includes narrow ruled pages, numbered pages, and a table of contents, which helps if you use notebooks for projects or indexed journaling.
Final thoughts
The Leatherpress notebook succeeds because it understands what a leather journal is supposed to feel like. The presentation is lovely, the covers look premium, and the numbered pages make it more useful than a purely decorative gift notebook.
It would not be my first recommendation for someone chasing the best possible fountain pen paper, but that is not really the point here. As a handsome leather writing journal for everyday notes, gifting, or personal journaling, it does the job well and looks good doing it.
