3 Simple Tips to Make Your Dot Grid Notebook Last Longer

There’s something special about a well-loved dot grid notebook—filled with your notes, ideas, sketches, and memories, it becomes more than just a stationery item. If you’re a fan of our 160gsm dot grid notebooks (whether you use them for study, work, or journaling), you know how satisfying it is to use every page. But how can you keep your notebook in great shape from the first page to the last? Today, we’re sharing 3 easy, actionable tips to prolong its lifespan and make the most of your favorite notebook.

Let’s dive in!

1. Protect the Cover: Invest in a Simple Sleeve or Case

The cover is the first line of defense for your notebook, and it’s often the first part to show wear and tear—especially if you carry it in a bag with pens, keys, or other bulky items. Our dot grid notebooks come with durable covers, but a little extra protection goes a long way.

For a budget-friendly option, try a clear vinyl sleeve. It’s lightweight, transparent (so you can still see your notebook’s design), and keeps dust, spills, and scratches at bay. If you want something more stylish or protective, opt for a fabric notebook cover or a leather sleeve. These not only shield the cover but also add a touch of personality to your setup.

Pro tip: Avoid placing heavy objects on top of your notebook when it’s in your bag—this can bend the cover or crease the pages, even with a sleeve. Try to keep it in a separate compartment if possible!

2. Handle Pages Gently: Avoid Tearing and Creasing

Our 160gsm dot grid paper is thick and resistant to bleeding and tearing, but it still needs careful handling to stay intact. Here’s how to treat your pages right:

- Turn pages slowly: When flipping through your notebook, don’t rush! Grip the corner of the page lightly and turn it smoothly—yanking pages can cause them to tear along the spine.

- Use the right tools: While our 160gsm paper works great with most writing tools (pens, markers, even light watercolors), avoid using sharp objects like box cutters or heavy-duty scissors near the pages. If you need to attach stickers or tape, choose low-tack options that won’t pull the paper when removed.

- Don’t fold pages excessively: Folding page corners as bookmarks is convenient, but repeated folding can weaken the paper and lead to tearing. Instead, use a small bookmark (a piece of ribbon, a sticky note, or a dedicated metal bookmark) to mark your place.

3. Store It Properly: Keep It Dry and Flat

How you store your notebook when you’re not using it has a big impact on its lifespan. Follow these storage tips to keep it in top condition:

First, keep it away from moisture. Water damage is one of the worst enemies of paper—even a little spill can warp the pages and ruin your notes. Store your notebook in a dry, cool place, and avoid leaving it near windows (where it might get rained on) or humid areas like bathrooms.

Second, store it flat. Standing your notebook upright for long periods can put pressure on the spine and cause the pages to loosen over time. Instead, lay it flat on a shelf or desk. If you have multiple notebooks, stack them gently (don’t pile too many on top) to avoid crushing the cover.

Your dot grid notebook is a companion for your thoughts, goals, and creativity. By taking a little extra care of it—protecting the cover, handling pages gently, and storing it properly—you can enjoy using it for longer, and create a collection of memories that will last beyond the last page.

Happy journaling!