What size is ideal for morning pages?
The standard is A5 (14×21cm). Three A5 pages = ~25-35 minutes. A4 is too much: three pages take 50+ minutes and most give up. Pocket A6 is valid for beginners or travel but the mental drain is less.
Size comparison:
- A6 pocket (9×14 cm): 15-18 min, valid trips/beginning
- A5 (14×21cm): 25-35 min — recommended
- A4 (21×29 cm): 50+ min, only for experienced writers
- Composer (19×25 cm): approximate to A4, same problem
Which brands are worth it in 2026?
Three brands dominate by quality/price ratio. Moleskine Cahier (the most affordable, €4-6), Leuchtturm1917 (best paper, €20-25), Rhodia Webnotebook (best paper, €18-22). All in A5 with horizontal rulings.
Top 3 notebooks 2026:
- Moleskine Cahier 80g: cheap, decent paper, perfect for getting started
- Leuchtturm1917 A5: 80g paper without transparency, index, numbering
- Rhodia Webnotebook: 90g paper — top of the range
- Stalogy 365 Days: Japanese, fine, paper 5/5
- Endless Recorder: for fountain pen fans
What weight of paper do you need and why?
The weight (grams per square meter) determines whether the pen is transparent. Minimum 80g for gel pen. If you use a fountain pen, minimum 90g. Below 70g you see the next page and ruins the experience.
Detail that almost no one mentions: the paper acid free Lasts for decades without yellowing. If you're going to save the pages (Cameron doesn't recommend it, but that's up to you), look for "acid-free."
Smooth, striped or squared?
Horizontal scoring of 7-8 mm is the standard. Smooth only if your handwriting is very stable and you don't need a guide. Grid is used more in bullet journaling — it's not ideal for continuous flow.