The Leuchtturm1917 A5 Notebook: A Planner’s Honest Supply Review

Have you ever stared at a blank notebook page, wondering if the paper quality would hold up to your most ambitious watercolor spreads, or if the dots would be too faint to ignore? For years, the Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook has been *the* go-to for so many of us in the bullet journaling community, often touted as the gold standard. But is it *really* worth the hype, especially when you’ve filled over 20 journals yourself and seen trends come and go? I’ve put this popular notebook through its paces, from delicate ink washes to chunky layered collages, and I’m ready to give you the honest truth. We’ll talk about the paper weight, the ghosting, the dot grid precision, and whether it truly lives up to its cult status. I’ve experimented with everything from minimalist trackers to elaborate monthly spreads, and I’ve got the spills (and no-spills!) to prove it. Let's break down exactly what makes this notebook tick, and if it’s the right fit for *your* creative planning style.

11 min read

Paper Quality: The Ghosting Gauntlet

The paper in the Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook is typically 80 gsm (grams per square meter), which sounds decent on paper, right? In my experience, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, and this is where a lot of the “ghosting” (when ink shows through to the other side) happens. For standard black ink from a fine-tip pen like the Sakura Pigma Micron 05 (a reliable favorite for its consistent 0.5mm line), ghosting is usually minimal. You can typically fit around 25-30 words in a standard bullet journal sentence on one line, with about 10 lines per page before it starts to feel cramped. However, when you introduce wetter mediums like Tombow Dual Brush Pens, things get trickier. I’ve found that even with moderate pressure and careful layering, some colors, especially the darker blues and purples, will bleed through noticeably. It doesn't usually *feather* (where ink spreads uncontrollably), but the imprint is definitely there. I tried a full-page watercolor wash using diluted Tombow markers on page 45 of one of my notebooks, and while it looked beautiful on the front, page 46 was almost unusable for writing without a significant amount of show-through, making it impossible to write on.

This ghosting is most apparent when you’re filling a page densely. If you’re someone who likes to write long journal entries or create elaborate, multi-layered artwork, you might find the 80 gsm paper a bit limiting. I once attempted a full-page monthly spread with a heavy emphasis on decorative elements using a variety of Tombow colors, and by the time I finished, the page behind it looked like a faint coloring book. It wasn't a complete disaster, but it definitely detracted from the neatness I was aiming for. For comparison, some premium notebooks use 100 gsm or even 120 gsm paper, which significantly reduces ghosting. While the Leuchtturm1917's paper is smooth and pleasant to write on for everyday tasks, it’s not the best choice for heavy ink users or those who want pristine, double-sided writing space for every single page.

For comparison, some premium notebooks use 100 gsm or even 120 gsm paper, which significantly reduces ghosting.

The Dot Grid: Precision and Practicality

One of the most celebrated features of the Leuchtturm1917 is its dot grid. The dots are typically spaced 0.5 cm apart, creating a perfect balance between structure and freedom. This spacing is ideal for drawing lines, creating boxes, and laying out trackers without feeling overly constrained, as you might with a traditional ruled notebook. In my setup, I often use this grid for weekly spreads that span two pages, typically measuring 29.5 cm wide by 20.7 cm tall (the standard A5 size). I’ll draw a central vertical line down the middle of the spread, creating two 14.75 cm wide columns. Then, I’ll use the dots to lay out seven days, with each day occupying roughly 4 cm of vertical space, leaving about 2 cm at the top for date and day titles. This allows for about 7-8 lines of writing per day, which is usually sufficient for my daily tasks and appointments.

The color of the dots is usually a subtle grey, which is fantastic because it doesn't overpower your ink or markers. I’ve used notebooks where the dot grid was a harsh black or a distracting blue, and it really pulled focus from my own planning. The Leuchtturm1917 dots are just faint enough to fade into the background when you’re actively using the page. I’ve also found that the dots are consistently placed across all pages, which is crucial for creating symmetrical layouts. When I tested a different brand where the dots shifted slightly from page to page, it threw off my entire weekly spread alignment. The Leuchtturm1917’s consistency, typically within a margin of error of less than 0.5mm across the entire notebook, means you can trust the grid for precise measurements, whether you're sketching out a habit tracker or designing a complex monthly overview.

When I tested a different brand where the dots shifted slightly from page to page, it threw off my entire weekly spread alignment.

Binding and Lay-Flat Capability

The binding of the Leuchtturm1917 notebook is designed to lay flat, which is a huge win for bullet journalists. This feature is critical when you're trying to write or draw across the entire width of a two-page spread. The notebooks are typically thread-bound, which allows them to open up more easily than glued bindings. When I first started bullet journaling, I used a cheap spiral-bound notebook, and trying to write near the spiral was a constant battle. The pages would flip unexpectedly, and the binding itself took up valuable writing space. The Leuchtturm1917, however, usually lies completely flat after a little bit of use, especially in the first 50-100 pages. I’d say after about a week of consistent use, the binding relaxes enough to stay open on its own, usually within a 1-2 cm margin from the spine.

This lay-flat capability is essential for certain types of spreads. For example, I created a large “Yearly Overview” spread that spanned two pages, measuring approximately 59 cm wide by 20.7 cm tall. I needed to draw a grid with 12 months across and 4 weeks down, and without the notebook lying flat, this would have been incredibly difficult. The binding held up well, and I could comfortably draw lines and fill in dates without the pages snapping shut. While some very stiff bindings might require you to hold them open with a paperweight for the first few days, the Leuchtturm1917 typically requires minimal persuasion. This makes the process of creating detailed spreads much more enjoyable and less frustrating.

This makes the process of creating detailed spreads much more enjoyable and less frustrating.

Additional Features: Pockets, Index, and Page Numbers

Beyond the paper and binding, the Leuchtturm1917 notebooks come with several thoughtful features that enhance their usability. The pocket in the back cover is a lifesaver for storing loose notes, stickers, or even small stencils. It's typically made of sturdy cardstock with gusseted corners, allowing it to expand slightly to hold a decent amount of ephemera. I’ve used mine to keep my monthly sticker set for the current month, which usually includes about 10-15 small sticker sheets, and it holds them securely without bulging excessively. The pocket dimensions are approximately 14 cm wide by 18 cm tall, providing ample space for smaller items.

The inclusion of a pre-printed index at the front of the notebook is another major advantage. It typically spans 4 pages, with 10 lines per page, giving you 40 spaces to log your important spreads. This is crucial for quickly finding specific layouts, like your “Books to Read” list or your “Emergency Contact” page. I usually dedicate the first 2-3 lines of each index entry to the page number and a brief description of the spread, and I often add a small color-coded sticker to match the theme of the month or section. The notebook also comes with pre-numbered pages, which saves you the tedious task of numbering each page yourself. This feature is invaluable for creating your index efficiently. I estimate that numbering 200 pages manually would take at least 2-3 hours, so having this done for you from the start is a significant time-saver.

Pen Recommendations: What Works and What Doesn't

Choosing the right pens is critical for any bullet journal, and with the Leuchtturm1917 A5, you need to be mindful of the 80 gsm paper. As I mentioned, the Sakura Pigma Micron 05 is a fantastic companion. Its archival ink is fade-resistant and waterproof, and the fine tip (0.5mm) allows for precise lines that don't bleed or feather much on this paper. A full page of writing with the Micron 05 will show minimal ghosting, making both sides of the page usable. I typically use this pen for all my daily planning, weekly layouts, and any writing-heavy sections, and I can comfortably fit around 250-300 words per page before significant ghosting becomes an issue.

The Tombow Dual Brush Pens are beautiful for color and creativity, but they require a more cautious approach. I’ve found that the brush tip, while flexible and great for lettering, tends to lay down more ink. When using the finer bullet tip end (around 0.8mm), ghosting is manageable, similar to the Micron 05. However, the brush tip, especially with darker or more saturated colors like Tombow's 723 (Pink) or 451 (Gray), will definitely show through. I recommend using these primarily for decorative elements, titles, or if you plan to use them very sparingly. A good strategy is to use them for accents rather than full backgrounds or large blocks of color. If you’re creating a monthly cover page and want to use a Tombow for a large title, consider using it on a separate piece of thicker paper (like 120 gsm cardstock) and then adhering it to your Leuchtturm1917 page to avoid ghosting on the underlying paper. I tried a full-page lettering piece with the brush tip of a Tombow on page 78, and page 79 was practically unwriteable.

Durability and Longevity: A Journal's Lifespan

The Leuchtturm1917 notebooks are generally known for their durability, which is important when you’re investing time and creativity into them. The covers are typically made of hardbound faux leather, which provides good protection for the pages inside. I’ve carried my journals in backpacks, purses, and even tossed them onto couches, and the covers have held up remarkably well. The corners might show a little wear after extensive use, typically developing slight scuffs or softened edges after about 6-12 months of daily handling. The faux leather itself is resistant to minor scratches, though deep gouges are, of course, possible.

The thread binding, as mentioned, contributes to longevity. Unlike spiral bindings that can bend or snag, or glued bindings that can crack, the thread binding is quite robust. I’ve had journals that have been heavily used for over a year, with pages frequently turned and the notebook opened wide, and the binding has remained intact. The only real concern for longevity with this notebook is the paper’s susceptibility to heavy ink. If you are very careful with your ink choices and avoid excessive saturation, your Leuchtturm1917 journal should last for its entire lifespan (typically 12 months for a daily journal) without the pages falling out or the binding breaking. I’ve filled over 20 of these, and I can count on one hand the number where the binding showed significant distress, and those were journals I used with extremely wet mediums almost exclusively.

Budget Alternatives and When to Consider Them

While the Leuchtturm1917 notebook is a fantastic option for many, its price point (typically around $20-$25 USD for the A5 size) might not fit everyone's budget, especially if you go through notebooks quickly. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative with comparable features, consider the Scribbles That Matter A5 Notebook. These often retail for around $15-$18 USD and feature 100 gsm paper, which significantly reduces ghosting compared to the Leuchtturm1917's 80 gsm. I’ve found the dot grid on Scribbles That Matter notebooks to be just as precise, and the binding usually lays flat well too. A full page of writing with a Tombow Dual Brush Pen on 100 gsm paper is usually only slightly visible on the reverse side, making it much more usable.

Another excellent option, particularly if you want even thicker paper, is the Archer & Olive Acrylograph Notebooks. These are pricier, often in the $25-$30 USD range, but they boast 160 gsm paper. This paper is designed to handle virtually any medium, including watercolors, gouache, and heavy marker use, with minimal to no ghosting or bleed-through. If your creative planning involves a lot of mixed media and you’re tired of ghosting, the extra investment in an Archer & Olive notebook might be well worth it. For those on a very tight budget, even basic spiral-bound notebooks from brands like Mead or Five Star can work for practice or daily task lists, though they lack the premium feel, lay-flat binding, and consistent dot grid of dedicated planning notebooks. You might need to adjust your expectations regarding paper quality and features, but they can be found for as little as $5-$10 USD.

So, is the Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook still worth the hype? For me, the answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. Its reliable dot grid, excellent lay-flat binding, and useful features like the pocket and index make it a joy to use for most of my planning needs. The paper quality is adequate for standard pen use, and the durability means it can withstand the rigors of daily life. However, if you’re a heavy ink user who loves bold colors and minimal ghosting, you might want to explore alternatives with thicker paper like Scribbles That Matter or Archer & Olive. My top recommendation is to try the Leuchtturm1917 if you haven’t already; it’s a fantastic baseline for understanding what makes a great planning notebook. If you find the ghosting a bit much, then consider it a stepping stone to discovering your next favorite journal.

Here are three concrete actions you can take:

1. Test your pens: Before committing to a full spread, always test your pens on the first few pages or a scrap piece of paper from the notebook. This will give you a clear idea of how they interact with the 80 gsm paper.
2. Embrace the pocket: Make full use of the back pocket for loose notes and stickers. It’s a simple feature that significantly boosts organization.
3. Consider your medium: If you primarily use fine-tip black pens, the Leuchtturm1917 is likely perfect. If you lean towards markers and watercolors, be prepared for some ghosting or explore the budget alternatives mentioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact paper weight of the Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook?

The Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook typically features 80 gsm (grams per square meter) paper. This is a standard weight for many notebooks, offering a good balance of smoothness and opacity for everyday writing. However, for mediums that lay down a lot of ink, like fountain pens or certain markers, it can lead to noticeable ghosting or even slight bleed-through on the reverse side of the page.

How does the dot grid spacing measure up?

The dot grid in the Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook is consistently spaced at 0.5 cm (approximately 0.2 inches) apart. This spacing is ideal for creating structured layouts such as calendars, trackers, and tables, while still offering flexibility for freehand drawing and writing. The dots themselves are usually a subtle grey, designed to fade into the background and not distract from your own creative work.

Is the Leuchtturm1917 notebook truly lay-flat?

Yes, the Leuchtturm1917 notebook is designed with a thread-bound construction that allows it to lay flat, especially after a period of use. While it might require a little encouragement to stay open in the very first few pages, the binding typically relaxes within the first 50-100 pages, enabling you to write or draw comfortably across the entire width of a two-page spread without the book snapping shut. This feature is crucial for creating large, seamless layouts.

Can I use watercolors or heavy markers in this notebook without bleed-through?

While the 80 gsm paper is suitable for most standard pens like ballpoints and fine-liners (e.g., Sakura Pigma Micron 05), it is not ideal for heavy watercolor washes or saturated marker use. You will likely experience significant ghosting and potentially some bleed-through with these mediums. For extensive watercolor or marker work, notebooks with thicker paper, such as 100 gsm or 160 gsm, are recommended. Brands like Scribbles That Matter or Archer & Olive offer better performance for wet media.