My Rhodia Notebook Review As A Paper Snob

Starting a bullet journal is always an exciting experience, but it is a thousand times more satisfying when you have a high-quality notebook. When you begin a journal, you want to know that it will stand up to whatever you can throw at it, which is why it is so important to do your research before picking one out. I have tried several different journal brands over the years, and there are precious few that I will use again and again. I’m a bit of a journal snob, you see, and I won’t waste my money or time on inadequate notebooks. That is why I want to share my Rhodia notebook review and tell you why this journal is worth considering for your next paper adventure.

My Rhodia Notebook Review

I discovered Rhodia for the first time a little over two years ago, and I have had a few sitting on my shelf ever since. This brand was relatively unknown in the bullet journal community until fairly recently, but it has started to gain some momentum. Still, it isn’t as widely known as the Leuchtturm1917 or the Moleskine notebooks, but I think it deserves a little more notoriety.

This Rhodia notebook (I’m specifically using the Rhodiarama) is tough, resilient, and enjoyable. Rhodia makes some great notebooks that have grown into one of my favorite bullet journal notebooks, and I’ve also dedicated a few to my Morning Pages, so you can’t really go wrong with one.

The Pros

What makes the Rhodia notebook a solid option for your next bullet journal? Here are some of the Rhodiarama notebook’s strengths.

Paper Quality

The first thing I have to point out about Rhodia notebooks is the dreamy paper quality. This notebook contains 90g ivory paper, and it is divine. Personally, I love ivory or cream paper way more than bright white, so that is a huge plus for me. And writing on the paper? I can’t find the words! It is thick and smooth, allowing you to write with even the juiciest fountain pen or brush pen with no problems at all. The Rhodiarama notebook has some of the best paper on the market if you like to add watercolor to your bullet journal. It does better than Leuchtturm1917 and Moleskine by a longshot. This paper is the real selling point of these journals, so don’t underestimate what it can do for you!

Soft Cover

The faux Italian leather covers of the Rhodia notebooks is incredibly supple. These buttery smooth covers are lovely to the touch and are unlike any other journal cover I have felt. And while the covers may not be hardcover, they are not flimsy softcovers either. The cover of the Rhodiarama strikes an excellent balance between hard and soft that I very much enjoy.

Dot Grid

When it comes to bullet journaling, the first thing I look for is a dot grid notebook. Thankfully that is no problem at all for Rhodia notebooks!

Back Pocket

The Rhodiarama notebooks come with an expandable pocket inside the back cover. I personally never use this pocket, but some people love keeping receipts, small photos, sticky notes, doodles, and other miscellaneous stuff. If you are one of those people, this pocket will be perfect for you!

Size Options

The Rhodiarama notebook has two size options — the A5 and the A6. I like using the A5, but if you enjoy a smaller pocket-sized notebook, then Rhodia has you covered.

Price

Rhodia notebooks are not the cheapest nor the most expensive journals. These notebooks land firmly in the middle of the pack — but for the quality, it really is a steal.

The Cons

The Rhodiarama has several excellent qualities, but it’s worth pointing out some of the less than ideal traits.

Orange Everywhere

One of the most annoying characteristics of Rhodia notebooks is the bright and distinct shade of orange on everything. The Rhodiarama journal provides several different cover color options, but every single journal has the same orange inside. The pocket in the back is orange, the ribbon bookmark is orange, and the inside cover is orange. And it is a vivid orange. I’m not a huge fan of such bright colors, so it is not my favorite feature of Rhodia notebooks. Perhaps it won’t bug you as much as it bugs me, but it is worth noting in this Rhodia notebook review.

Rhodia Logo

Another thing that irritates me is the Rhodia logo on the front cover of nearly all of their products. I understand the need for branding, but I wish they had put the logo in a slightly more discreet place, like on the back cover. However, I will say that their choice to deboss the logo makes this design easier to swallow. The logo isn’t super bold or obvious thanks to this technique, and it helps the logo blend into the color of the cover a bit easier.

A Stand Up Journal

If you want a journal that is reliable, strong, and beautiful, then the Rhodia notebook is a great option for you. Paper enthusiasts, artists, and letterers everywhere will love the quality that this journal provides. Give this notebook a try and you will find yourself reaching for it again and again.

I hope you have found this Rhodia notebook review helpful! Let me know in the comments section what product you want me to review next, and head to the My Supplies page to see some of my other favorite materials!