Creative writing in a leather notebook: this is what it will bring you

Peace, clarity and direction – all with pen and paper

We live in a time when our minds rarely stop. Days are filled with notifications, appointments, and thoughts piling up. It's no wonder it can be hard to keep track. That's precisely why something as simple as writing by hand can make such a difference.

With a pen and a good notebook, you can step back from the noise for a moment. You'll naturally slow down, notice what's going on, and literally create space in your mind . Not by thinking even harder, but by letting go—and putting your thoughts on paper.

Whether you're working, worrying, planning, or just need to unwind, writing helps . And you only need one thing: a blank sheet of paper in a sturdy leather notebook.

Writing helps you think clearly

At SA Design, we often see customers return for a handmade notebook because writing brings so much peace. A growing body of research confirms why: handwriting activates your brain differently than typing.

It helps you focus, make connections, and remember better . And perhaps even more importantly, it creates space for what truly matters.

Once you start, you often notice three things:

1. Your head becomes calmer

Writing reduces the pressure on your brain. What normally lingers on your mind gets a place on paper. This creates space —and often more peace.

Tip:
Start small . Don't force yourself to journal for an hour every day. Possible options include:

– write for 10 minutes every morning
– 3 things to be grateful for every evening
– or briefly write down something you want to remember or let go of

Choose a consistent format that suits you. Short and regular is better than long and unattainable.

2. Your thoughts become clearer

What once seemed unclear or overwhelming becomes verbalized—and thus, given form. You discover what's important, what you can let go of, and what you already knew.

Tip:
Let go of the idea that a journal has to be a diary. It doesn't have to start with "dear journal," and you don't have to analyze your entire day. Keywords, lists, or individual sentences work just as well. You don't have to reread it—but it can be fun to look back.

3. You know better what your next step is

Whether you're stuck at work, have new plans, or simply want to reflect, writing reveals patterns. You'll discover what energizes you and what you should let go of.

Tip:
Think of your leather notebook as a personal tool . Not as something to record everything, but as a way to pause for a moment. For example, try writing down two positive moments from today and two things for tomorrow. Small steps provide direction—without everything having to be finished yet.

A sustainable notebook that will last for years

At SA Design, we create handcrafted products that are not only beautiful but also durable . Our leather notebook covers are handmade from vegetable-tanned leather from Italy and Spain. They are refillable, durable, and designed to last for years .

This way you can turn something as mundane as writing into a fixed ritual that suits you – at home, at work or on the road.

Make it yourself? That's possible too.

In our workshop, you'll learn how to make your own leather notebook cover. You'll choose the leather, thread, and finish, and then work step-by-step in our studio in Vinkeveen – near Amsterdam and Utrecht.

This creative workshop is ideal as a girls' day out, mother-daughter moment or DIY afternoon for yourself .

Also possible as a company outing or team day – and can often be booked through your work's personal development budget .

The workshop lasts 2.5 hours and is suitable for everyone—with or without experience. You'll go home with a personalized and reusable notebook , ready for your own writing ritual.

Give your head an outlet

A good notebook can help you gain an overview, find peace and think clearly again.

📓 Browse our collection of sustainable leather notebooks or book a spot in the workshop – a creative outing with lasting results.