Code & Quill “Origin”
Notebook Review

Specs:

5.5×7.7″ size
Dot grid and indentation ruling on each page spread
100GSM off-white paper
Stingray leatherette cover
Lay flat binding

Notes:

Code & Quill offered up a sample notebook for review, I was immediately intrigued by the unique ruling inside. The right sheet is printed with their proprietary “indentation” rule (a hybrid line + graph) and the left sheet is printed with a 5mm dot grid.

The grey leatherette cover is nicely textured, it reminded me of stingray leather’s pattern. There’s minimal branding, but I like how it is done. Code & Quill have sewn on a fabric patch with their logo on the front of each book. The ruling inside pretty much has all of the bases covered for anything you want to write or sketch – thanks to the lines, grid, and dots. I can definitely see the layout being useful. The paper inside reminds me of that which is found in the Rhodia Webnotebook. It’s slightly heavier at 100GSM, but retains a similar off-white color.

The paper is slightly more absorbent than Rhodia and lacks the slick “coated” feel, but it’s a pleasure to write on. The paper easily holds up to fountain pen, gel, rollerball, and pencil without bleeding through. There was a slight bit of show through, but nothing to the point where the page wouldn’t be usable on both sides.

I was informed by the company that they have further improved the paper for the final production version, which I would definitely like to see. The size, shape, and ruling are ideal for everyday use. It’s a great looking book that brings something new to the table. The Origin is competitively priced at $20, coming in slightly cheaper than other books with similar specs. I’m definitely a fan of the notebook and I’d like to see where the new brand goes in the future. Thanks again to Code & Quill for sending over the book!