Tomoe River in a bound format — the same paper, a different context
The Tomoe River notebook uses the same 52gsm Tomoegawa paper as the loose sheets but bound into a notebook format. This changes the context of use: instead of sampling and exploring inks on individual sheets that can be filed or displayed, the notebook provides a continuous record — an ink diary, a writing journal, a place where the papers from months of fountain pen use accumulate in sequence. The blank format is the correct choice for this kind of mixed use: writing, sketching, ink swatches, and anything else that benefits from the Tomoe River surface can coexist on the same spread without the constraint of a ruled or grid layout. The 160-page count at 52gsm produces a notebook with considerable page count without excessive thickness or weight.
Honest Note:
Who is it For?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUSTIONS (FAQ)
Is this the same paper as the Tomoe River loose sheets?
Yes — exactly the same 52gsm Tomoegawa paper. The loose sheets and the notebook are the same material in different formats. The show-through, dry time, shading, and sheen performance are identical.
Why blank rather than ruled?
The blank format is the most versatile — it accommodates writing, sketching, ink swatches, and anything else without restriction. For a pure writing journal where a line guide is useful, the Midori MD Notebook in ruled format may be more practical. The Tomoe River notebook is recommended in blank because fountain pen enthusiasts using it tend to mix writing, drawing, and ink annotation.
Should I write on both sides of each page?
This depends on your tolerance for show-through. At 52gsm, ink on one side is visible through the page from the other side when held to light. Under normal reading conditions, show-through from the previous page may be distracting or may not be noticeable depending on the ink colour and density. Many practitioners write on one side only; others use both sides and find the show-through acceptable. Try both sides on your first few pages to discover your preference.