Did you know there was such a thing as left handed notebooks? If you’re left handed and reading this, you’re in for some good news.
But first some bad news: there are only so many brands that manufacture notebooks, journals, and sketchbooks with left handers specifically in mind. Nevertheless, these are well worth the buy and can be easily purchased online for reasonable prices.
Thankfully, there are also convenient alternatives like top-wire pads and notebook designs that help overcome the hassle of pages that won’t lay flat. On that note, let us give you a hand (right or left!) in helping you find the best left handed notebooks for you!
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Best left handed notebooks
While finding left handed journals and notebooks isn’t the easiest task,
there are some great options you can look into right away; check out our favorites for writing, sketching, journaling, and more.
Moleskine Classic Notebook
Sure, phones are handy for jotting down quick thoughts or memos. But if you’re anything like me, nothing beats paper and pen, and if there’s a notebook brand you can’t go wrong with, it’s Moleskine.
Known for its sleek designs and high-quality paper, the reputed Italian brand Moleskine features this Classic Collection in ruled, dotted, blank, and squared layouts. So, how is this a good recommendation for left handers?
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Unlike most generic thread-bound notebooks, this model lays flat open at a complete 180º angle. This means you won’t have to worry about holding down pages in an awkward position as you write! In fact, you can write in this notebook at any angle, whether horizontally or vertically.
Ideal for writers and creative thinkers, these timeless notebooks contain over 190 pages and are available in different colors (although my favorite is the good ole’ black hardcover). Better yet, this edition comes in various sizes: XS to XXL and A4. Personally, I have a preference for the brand’s XL size.
Why? Because they’re small enough to carry but big enough for extensive writing. And, despite the designation, the XL size isn’t necessarily large: ~7 x 9 inches (~19 x 25cm). Also, this notebook’s thick ivory paper is an excellent fit if you tend to write with different pen types, whether fountain, gel, or ballpoint!
Field Notes Left-Handed Ruled Notebooks
I can’t remember the last time I carried a bag that didn’t contain (at least!) one notebook. That said, if you’re a pocket notebook kind of person, these 48-page lined paper notebooks by Field Notes are specifically designed for left handers and are one of my favorites.
Popular for its distinctive cover themes and designs, Field Notes makes these lovely left handed notebooks to accommodate note-takers on the go. For only ~$13, you’ll get a pack of three mini left handed journals featuring binding on the right vs. left side.
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Note that these are small-sized left handed notebooks (~3.5 x 5.5 inches/~9 x 14cm) and, ultimately, serve a more functional purpose than creative: these aren’t necessarily the best for hours of journaling!
Also, the paper sheets are acid-free, so you won’t see yellowing over time. One of the biggest advantages is that these left handed notebooks are saddle stitched, allowing for pages to lay flat more efficiently — which is always a plus.
If you’re looking for something with a similar design but larger, whether for creative writing or school and office work, check out the following product!
Lefty Wirebound Spiral Left Handed Notebook
As strange as it seems, an everyday left handed notebook is somewhat tricky to find. But there’s a stationery and papercraft brand devoted to making lefthanders’ lives easier!
Roaring Spring Paper Products features a line called Lefty which includes items like this 100-page left handed spiral notebook. Like the previous suggestion, these notebooks are bound on the right vs. the left.
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These left handed notebooks contain wide-ruled paper and can be purchased individually or in packs of three — or in bulks of 24 notebooks! This is ideal for schools sourcing classroom materials or small businesses looking for office supplies to suit everyone.
The downside of these products is that they can be confusing to order since there are so many variations to look out for. For example, there are different notebook sizes as well as one-subject and three-subject models to pick from (prices vary accordingly).
The colors are also a shot in the dark. When buying these individually, you’re not allowed to choose a specific color. On the other hand, I really like how sturdy these are: spiral edges are coil-locked and, therefore, snag-free. That’s the dream! Overall, these are good quality, budget-friendly notebooks for daily use.
PAPERAGE Blank Journal Notebook
Suppose you’ve been looking for a journal for left handers. In that case, PAPERAGE has a beautiful selection of notebooks that I can assure anyone will appreciate; I truly love everything about these journals!
These thread-bound journals have been designed to suit right and left handed users with their convenient lay-flat design. Perfect for writing, note-taking, and journaling, these left handed notebooks are also suitable for drawing and sketching: pages are blank vs. lined.
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But dotted and lined editions of this notebook are available, too! However, I prefer a blank page for journaling because it inspires more free-form expression, whether written or sketched, and allows for experimenting with different mediums.
It’s also a great option if you’re vegan! The cover is made of water-resistant vegan leather and holds 160 pages of acid-free, 100gsm paper. This is the paper weight of household printer paper, so I would stick to ballpoint pens, pencils, colored pencils, etc.
Compared to most left handed journals, this brand has a lot to offer in terms of colors. There are lots of unique hues to choose from — 18, to be exact! An inner pocket and sticker labels are other fun features. And before moving on to our next pick, we have to point out how cheap this notebook is — only ~$12 a piece!
Zen Art Supplies Sketchbook
If you like to combine writing with drawing, collaging, scrapbooking, or other, I recommend purchasing a left handed sketchbook instead of a standard notebook. This will give you a blank canvas to play with however you see fit without worrying about printed lines, dots, or squares.
Also, sketchbook paper is generally more resistant and supports a broader variety of materials. With that in mind, I love this left handed sketchbook by Zen Art Supplies! It’s available in two sizes, with prices ranging between ~$14-$18, which is very reasonable, considering the versatility of these editions.
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Accommodating dry and light wet mediums, this 160-page, 120gsm hot-pressed paper sketchbook stands out for laying completely flat when open, making it a perfect pick for left handed artists. This also makes it extremely practical to work across both pages effortlessly.
You can use pencils, colored pencils, ink, light markers, and even light washes here! Mind you, heavier watercolor layers will bleed, though. Also, before buying this sketchbook, confirm sizes. While a smaller model may suit writing, if your goal is to incorporate drawing or watercoloring, I suggest a larger surface.
Each sketchbook is made with recycled materials and is hand-stitched and glued together. This brand also sells lay-flat design bullet journals and watercolor paper pads. Speaking of paper pads, check out our following recommendation!
Bachmore Sketch Book
Many left handed artists and writers eventually resort to top spiral-bound notebooks and pads. Why? Because it removes having to deal with the annoyance of lateral notebook bindings getting in the way.
If you’re looking for a left handed sketchbook, the Bachmore Sketch Book is a high-quality product for professionals and amateurs alike. In addition, it’s an excellent choice if you work with colored pencils and charcoal.
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This layout is a great alternative to standard left handed spiral notebooks. For almost $13, this sturdy top spiral sketchbook holds 100 pages of smooth, acid-free paper and measures ~9×12 inches (~23x30cm): perfect if you want something practical to transport.
And while you’re free to use your sketchbook as you see fit, I recommend using this product for drawing only. For something more mixed medium, I recommend the suggestion above!
You can also purchase different cover colors and sizes or a two-pack for ~$20 on Amazon. If you’re looking for a fuss-free left handed sketchbook that accommodates dry materials, this is the one!
LEUCHTTURM1917 Official Bullet Journal Edition 2
Bullet journaling is all the rage right now! Therefore, before ending our guide, I want to recommend this gorgeous bullet journal by LEUCHTTURM1917. This is the 2nd edition of bullet journals by this brand!
Surprisingly, this product has been featured in the New York Times, Vogue, the BBC, and more, so if you’re looking to treat yourself to something a little more upscale, this is it. You can find this bullet journal in different colors for the same price.
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This thread-bound notebook is perfect for left hand users due to its lay-flat design. As a result, you’ll be able to tackle your bullet journal from any angle without interference from spirals or stiff binding.
The bullet journal contains numbered pages (204) and 120 gsm paper. This paper weight is the equivalent of poster paper; pencils or lighter pens will work well, but heavier ink or markers will likely bleed through.
This bullet journal is packed with features like a sticker sheet, bullet key, index, future log, and pocket guide to jumpstart your new creative hobby. This is the perfect place to enter the world of BuJo!
Are left handed notebooks worth it?
Whether you’re reading this because you’re left handed, searching for left handed journals for a loved one, or simply curious to know what these look like, one thing is certain: they definitely make a difference.
In the case of wire-bound spiral notebooks, having the spiral positioned on the right side of your notebook will undoubtedly be more comfortable as it prevents your hand from resting on it while writing, bullet journaling, sketching, etc.
If you’re right handed and want to see what this feels like, just turn your spiral notebook around to get a taste. Honestly, it’s pretty annoying!
Another popular alternative for left handed creatives to consider are top spiral sketchbooks and writing pads. Since there isn’t any binding on the edges, you’ll be able to work more freely at any angle you want.
In some cases, these may feel more flimsy or prone to tearing, but that will essentially depend on the quality and sturdiness of the binding and paperweight of your pad. There are a lot of great top spiral notebooks that feature thick paper compatible with heavier inks and washes.
Notebooks and journals with a lay-flat design are the most accessible, easy-to-find solution for left handers. You’ll find greater versatility and variety in this category, too, especially in terms of colorful covers and dimensions.
When picking your left handed notebooks, really consider the type of binding. For example, notebooks bound with glue don’t usually remain completely flat when opened — they’re usually more vulnerable to bending.
On the other hand, notebooks bound with stitches are much more agile and allow pages to lay flat and open more organically.
Also, there are a couple of hacks to help pin down pages. For example, if your journal has an elastic closure, you can place it around the right side of your notebook to prevent the pages from flipping upwards. Using a paper clip to hold down a chunk of pages is also a way to help keep things under control!
That’s it for our guide to the best left handed notebooks! Any advice for other intrepid crafters? Let everyone know in the comments below!
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