An Iconic Brand Finally Improves upon a Centuries-Old EDC Essential

The art of writing things by hand (you know, with paper and pen,) is sadly, a dying one — a loss I’ve lamented for a long time. And that’s a shame, as there are a lot of good reasons to write things down by hand, like better memory, improved critical thinking, quicker learning and more.

One of the roadblocks to embracing a handwriting habit has always been pocket space. Adding a notebook (and a pen) alongside your phone, keys, knife and wallet can be a big ask. But what if you could streamline it?

That’s the question answered by the Issey Miyake x Moleskine Note-a-Note, which finally improves on a centuries-old EDC essential in some crucial ways.

Issey Miyake

Pocket notebook, reimagined

This pocket notebook features a hard cover, is filled with blank pages, and fits conveniently in your pocket. So, what sets it apart from other pocket notebooks? Glad you asked.

For starters, this is actually smaller than most pocket notebooks — about the same size as a cardholder wallet (and shares some functionality, but more on that later.) That makes it even easier to carry, as it cuts down the required space.

Issey Miyake

It’s also slimmer than average, as it doesn’t have a traditional binding or staples. Instead, the paper inside is all interconnected, accordion-style. That means you can open it up fully for freeform writing, scribbling and drawing.

However, you can also thumb through it like a more traditional notebook. And once one side is full, you simply flip it around and keep right on writing.

But that’s only part of the innovation and versatility the Note-a-Note offers.

Issey Miyake

Bank note(book)

As mentioned, finding space in your EDC loadout for a pocket notebook is a big ask. Luckily, this one offers some versatile functionality that makes it a lot more valuable.

Inside, it has expandable pockets at the front and back that can hold up to 20 cards (as in debit, credit or even business.) That means you could use it as a wallet, as well as a pocket notebook … yes, even if you carry cash.

You see, the cover has an elastic band that wraps around it, ostensibly to hold the book closed. However, it could also be used to stash some cash or even hang onto your pen.

Realistically, you could replace your wallet altogether with this notebook, should you so desire. That makes carrying it a much more manageable option, increasing its overall value tenfold.

Issey Miyake

Now available

The Issey Miyake x Moleskine Note-a-Note is now available on Moleskine’s site in eight distinct colorways for $46 apiece.

Issey Miyake

Issey Miyake x Moleskine Note-a-Note

• $46 at Moleskine

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