Field Notes Review: A Comprehensive Guide to America‘s Favorite Notebooks
As a notebook enthusiast and fashionista, I‘m always on the hunt for well-crafted, stylish notebooks to jot down my ideas, sketches, and daily musings. So when I discovered Field Notes, with their vintage-inspired design and made-in-the-USA quality, I knew I had to dig deeper. After thoroughly researching the brand and testing out a variety of their memo books, journals, and planners, I‘m excited to share everything you need to know in this ultimate Field Notes review.
The Story Behind Field Notes
Founded in 2006, Field Notes is the brainchild of graphic designer Aaron Draplin and the Coudal Partners team in Chicago. Inspired by the utilitarian design of classic agricultural memo books, Draplin set out to create a modern version that combined nostalgia with contemporary functionality.
Over the past 16 years, Field Notes has garnered a cult following, collaborating with iconic brands, artists, and musicians to release limited-edition notebooks that consistently sell out. They‘ve been featured in publications like The New York Times, Wired, and Fast Company, and have built a community of over 120,000 fans on Instagram.
So what makes Field Notes so special? Let‘s break down the key features:
Highlights of Field Notes Notebooks
- Pocket-friendly sizes (3.5" x 5.5" original size)
- Durable covers made from thick, recyclable chipboard
- High-quality paper stocks (graph, ruled, plain, or mixed)
- USA-made with soy-based inks and rounded corners
- Vintage-inspired designs with a clean, modern twist
- Limited-edition quarterly releases and artist collaborations
- Customization available for businesses and special occasions
- Affordable prices (around $10-15 per 3-pack)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Whether you‘re a creative professional, student, or simply someone who appreciates good design, Field Notes offers a notebook for every need and taste. From the waterproof and tear-resistant Expedition to the sleek, minimalist Pitch Black, there‘s a style to suit your personality and intended use.
Deep Dive: Field Notes Most Popular Memo Books
To help you find your perfect notebook companion, I‘ve put together in-depth reviews of five of Field Notes‘ most sought-after editions.
Expedition
Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, field researchers, adventure seekers
The Field Notes Expedition is the ultimate all-weather notebook. With waterproof, tear-resistant pages and a durable cover, it can withstand any environment…
Frontpage
Perfect for: Journalists, reporters, interviewers
Channel your inner Lois Lane with the Field Notes Frontpage edition. This reporter-style notebook features 70 pages of narrow-ruled "mote paper" perfect for quick notes on the go…
Haxley
Perfect for: Artists, illustrators, creative writers
Get those creative juices flowing with the Field Notes Haxley edition. A collaboration with Chicago artist Jay Ryan, this 2-pack includes one notebook with Ryan‘s quirky illustrations on the left and blank pages on the right for your own sketches and stories…
Steno
Perfect for: Note-takers, list-makers, meeting attendees
Say goodbye to awkward notebook flipping with the Field Notes Steno pad. The wire-bound top allows the notebook to lay flat, while the durable chipboard cover folds over to create a firm writing surface…
56-Week Planner
Perfect for: Bullet journalers, schedule organizers, goal-setters
Stay on track all year long with the Field Notes 56-Week Planner. Choose your own starting month and fill in the dates as you go. With 112 pages of weekly calendar grids, blank pages, and a durable cover, this planner will keep you organized in style…
What Customers Are Saying About Field Notes
Don‘t just take my word for it – here‘s what real Field Notes customers have to say:
"I never leave home without a Field Notes in my back pocket. The graph paper is perfect for sketching out ideas on the fly, and the size is just right. Plus, they look darn cool!" – John D., graphic designer
"I‘ve been subscribing to the Quarterly Editions for three years now, and it‘s always a treat to see what unique design they come up with next. The quality is consistently top-notch." – Sarah R., teacher
"As a bullet journaler, I appreciate how well the pages hold up to my fountain pens. No bleeding or feathering at all. And the covers are sturdy enough to withstand daily use. Field Notes for life!" – Alex P., blogger
Field Notes boasts an impressive 4.8-star average rating on Amazon, with customers praising the notebooks‘ portability, durability, and timeless style. Many reviewers also appreciate the brand‘s commitment to American manufacturing and eco-friendly materials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Field Notes
Q: Where can I buy Field Notes notebooks?
A: Field Notes are available directly from fieldnotesbrand.com, as well as retailers like Amazon, Jet Pens, and Huckberry. Some brick-and-mortar stores, like independent bookshops and gift boutiques, may also carry them.
Q: How often does Field Notes release new editions?
A: Field Notes releases four limited-edition Quarterly Editions per year, usually with a seasonal or regional theme. These often sell out quickly, so subscribing is the best way to guarantee you‘ll get your hands on them.
Q: Can I customize Field Notes for my business or event?
A: Yes! Field Notes offers customized notebooks for companies, weddings, and special occasions. You can add your own logo or artwork to the cover and choose from a variety of paper styles and pack sizes.
Q: What is the Field Notes warranty?
A: All Field Notes products are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you‘re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund within 30 days. Field Notes also offers replacements for manufacturer defects.
The Final Verdict: Are Field Notes Notebooks Worth It?
After extensively testing Field Notes notebooks and researching the brand‘s history and customer feedback, I can confidently say that these pocket-sized journals live up to the hype.
The combination of rugged construction, thoughtful design, and made-in-the-USA quality sets Field Notes apart from other notebook brands on the market. Whether you opt for a classic Kraft Original or spring for one of the artist-designed limited editions, you‘re getting a tool that will inspire you to write, sketch, and create wherever your adventures take you.
As someone who‘s constantly jotting down ideas and to-do lists, I love knowing I have a reliable notebook always at the ready in my pocket or bag. The compact size doesn‘t sacrifice function, and the paper quality can handle everything from ballpoint pens to fountain pens without complaint.
While Field Notes may cost slightly more than your average drugstore notebook, I believe the superior craftsmanship, unique designs, and USA-made quality make them a worthwhile investment for anyone who values the analog writing experience. Plus, with the wide range of styles available, you‘re sure to find a Field Notes notebook that speaks to your personality and needs.
In short, if you‘re looking for a well-made, portable notebook that will spark your creativity and stand up to daily use, look no further than Field Notes. Trust me – your inner stationery nerd will thank you.
What are some of your favorite Field Notes editions? Share your top picks and how you use your notebooks in the comments below!
