This free A5 trifold leather journal cover template gives you everything you need to build a clean, wrap-style notebook cover designed for everyday use. The printable PDF pattern is designed for A5 notebooks and features a structured trifold layout that keeps inserts secure without excess bulk.
You’ll also get a full build-along video where I show you exactly how I put these together—all the construction steps, assembly tricks, and finishing techniques to make a leather journal cover that actually holds up to daily use.
This trifold leather journal format has gotten really popular with leathercrafters trying to nail that high-end traveler-style journal vibe. Just to be clear—this is my own independently designed template and isn’t connected to any specific brand. But if you’re into that classic look, the proportions and layout should be right up your alley.
Finished Notebook Cover Examples
Template Options
Download the free print PDF pattern below! When you open the file, you will have the option to select either Version 1 or Version 2 of the design. Version 1 is the original template dimensions. Version 2 features a slightly updated design. The overall length is a little bit shorter and it has the option to place your elastic closure on the spine of the notebook instead of the back. Whichever you select, you can follow the video instructions the same way.
⬇️ DOWNLOAD FREE PDF PATTERNFree A5 TriFold Notebook Cover PDF - 3.53 MB
⚡Laser-Ready / Source Files
For laser owners, digital cutters, and anyone who hates tracing paper PDFs
- 📐 Original source vector files in three common (SVG, AI, EPS)
- 🎯 Perfectly scaled — no guessing, no resizing
- ✂️ Clean cut paths ready for LightBurn, Cricut, xTool Studio and more!
- ⏱️ Skip PDF tracing and setup time entirely
- 🛠️ Ideal for customization, engraving, and digital workflows
🧩 Acrylic Template Set
Built for repeat builds and production work
- 🧱 Precision-cut acrylic templates for long-term use
- 🚀 Faster layout and cutting than paper patterns
- 🔁 Consistent results across every build
- 🛍️ Ideal for small-batch production, markets, and commissions
- 💪 Won’t stretch, tear, or wear out like paper
Usage Note: You may use this design to create and sell the end product. However, you cannot redistribute this template in any form.
If you need any general assistance with how our patterns work, check out our How To Use MAKESUPPLY Leather Templates Guide!
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Project Instructions
Project Inventory
Product | Description | Link |
Fits (3) standard A5 notebooks by default, but more can be added. | ; | |
For tracing the pattern on the leather | ; | |
Great for cutting light to medium weight leath | ; | |
Protect your tools and work table | ; | |
Non-slip hammer head for punching holes and setting rivets | ; | |
Solid surface for setting eyelets | ; | |
Protects hole punches from damage | ; | |
For melting the ends of the frayed elastic cord | ; | |
Fast and reliable source but limited color options | ; | |
Etsy source, nice colors. | ; | |
High quality cord with nice color options | ; | |
Best for using 2mm cord and 3mm eyelets | ; | |
Eyelets are optional but look great with this style notebook cover! | ; | |
For incredibly fast and beautiful laser engravings (great for personalization) | ;; | |
For hot stamping names and goldfoiling | ; |
Leather Selection
To make this notebook cover, you have a wide variety of leathers to choose from, but as mentioned in the video, I have a few suggestions. The most important aspects of the leather you choose are the weight and temper. For the weight, I recommend around 2mm (4-5oz). It’s a great all-around weight for notebook covers like this. You can go a little lower or heavier, but I wouldnt do much past 2.3mm it just gets too thick.
The next most important consideration is the leather temper. I would suggest a least a medium to medium-firm leather. Firmer leathers will hold the structure better and also hold up better against the elastic. This means avoiding extremely soft leathers, such as goatskin, sheepskin, or upholstery-type leather.
If you’re trying to replicate a Louise Carmen or Paper Republic style, you will want to stick to vegetable-tanned leathers. If you want to use what those companies are using stick with Italian “Vachetta” leather from tanneries like La Bretagna, Conceria Walpier, Badalassi Carlo, and the list goes on. I use both Minerva Smooth from Badalassi Carlo and Buttero from Conceria Walpier in my photo examples. If you search them on Google you will find suppliers close to you or you can order direct from Italy at Buy Leather Online.
Hardware and Elastic Selection
This design is best made with either 1.5mm or 2mm elastic cord. If you want a “daintier” look, go with the 1.5mm elastic. The only issue I’ve found is that the diameter is a bit more challenging to source. There is a link in the inventory section to an Etsy shop that offers great color options in 1.5mm. 2mm elastic is slightly heavier but much easier to find on Amazon, craft stores, and other retailers.
When creating your notebook cover, you have two options. Make it with the metal eyelets or without. Here is the rule of thumb I suggested in the video:
- 1.5mm elastic, with eyelets – consider using 2mm holes and eyelets for a snug fit.
- 1.5mm elastic, without eyelets – you can do 2mm or 2.5mm holes. 2.5mm will give you a little more space.
- 2mm elastic, with eyelets – use 3mm holes and eyelets.
- 2mm elastic, without eyelets – 2.5mm holes look nice. 3mm also works well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What size notebook(s) does this cover fit?
This template is designed specifically for standard A5-sized notebooks. Works best with soft covers especially if you want to add multiple books at once. You can use notebooks that are smaller, but, the height cannot exceed the size of a standard A5.
Is this similar to popular trifold notebook covers I’ve seen online?
This template follows a classic trifold notebook format that has become popular among leathercrafters in recent years. While independently designed and not affiliated with any brand, it appeals to makers looking to build a refined, wrap-style leather journal cover.
Is this a physical product or a digital file?
It is currently available in 3 different formats. If you wish to print out the design on your printer at home there is the print ready PDF’s that come in Letter (8.5″ x 11″) or A4 size paper. Match the paper size to what you’re using in your printer.
If you wish to laser cut this design or make edits to the pattern you will need to purchase the Laser-Ready / Source files. You will receive multiple different formats that can be easily edited or loaded into your laser.
If you want a physical template for faster production, you can purchase the Acrylic Template from our web store. We will cut it for you and ship it to your door. This is currently only available to U.S. customers due to the high costs of international shipping.
What skill level is this project best for?
This is a very beginner-friendly project! There is no sewing involved just cutting leather and punching out some holes. If you follow the build-along video you should have no issue at all with this design.
What type of leather works best for this design?
Vegetable-tanned leather works best for this style, especially firmer leathers that hold structure well when folded. We recommend staying away from softer “floppy” leathers like Sheepskin, Goatskin, Deer and the general category of upholstery leather. Specific recommendations are listed in the leather selection section above.
Guidelines of Template Usage
We put a lot of time and effort into producing these templates, videos, and blog posts. Please do not distribute the template you have purchased from MAKESUPPLY. It’s not cool and hurts our feelings (CRY EMOJI). And we have eyes EVERYWHERE.
However, you are free to do with the end product you create using the template as you wish. Give as a gift or even start selling them under your own brand. Go crazy!
