Download a free A6 traveler-style leather notebook cover pattern in printable PDF format. This template shows how to make a simple bi-fold elastic notebook cover designed to hold multiple A6 notebook inserts. The design follows the classic traveler-style layout and includes both a standard multi-insert elastic version and a simplified 2-cord version, allowing you to create a refillable leather journal cover that works with thin A6 notebooks.
The pattern includes layouts sized specifically for A6 notebook inserts and is ideal for makers who want a compact traveler-style journal. Both square-corner and rounded-corner versions are included so you can print the look you prefer. Files are provided in Letter and A4 print formats for traditional hand cutting. The PDFs can be printed as many times as you like, but the files themselves are not editable.
If you’d prefer the editable source files, check out the Laser Ready / Source Files link below.
Note: Be sure to print at 100% scale for accurate sizing.
Finished A6 Traveler Notebook Cover Images
Template Options
⬇️ DOWNLOAD FREE PDF PATTERNA6 Traveler Notebook Cover PDF Pattern - 1.63 MB
Usage Note: You are free to use this design to create and even sell the end product. However, you cannot redistribute this template in any form.
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Video Instructions
Check out these instructions we created for the standard Traveler Notebooks Patterns. The process will be the exact same for this A6 version.
Project Inventory
Product | Description | Link |
Fits (3) standard A6 “traveler” style notebooks by default, but more can be added. | ; | |
Protect your tools and work table | ; | |
Non-slip hammer head for punching holes and setting rivets | ; | |
Solid surface for setting eyelets (optional) | ; | |
Protects hole punches from damage | ; | |
For melting the ends of the frayed elastic cord | ; | |
Fast and reliable source, but limited color options | ; | |
2mm Elastic Cord (Option #2) | High quality cord with nice color options | ; |
High quality cord, great colors, thinner profile. | ; | |
Recommend having 1.5 – 4mm sizes to use. | ; | |
Leather thickness gauge to…. gauge the thickness of the leather 🙂 | ; | |
For tracing the pattern shape on the leather surface | ; | |
Excellent cutting knife for light to medium weight leather | ; | |
Edge Beveler | To bevel the edges of the journal (optional) | ; |
Used to burnish the beveled edges (optional) | ; | |
Used to burnish the beveled edges (optional) | ; |
Leather Selection
When making this notebook cover, you can use a wide range of leathers—but the two things that matter most are thickness and temper.
For thickness, I recommend around 2-2.2mm (about 4–5 oz). It’s a great all-around weight for covers like this. You can go a bit thinner or thicker, but I wouldn’t push much past about 2.4mm, since it starts to feel bulky.
Next is temper. Aim for at least a medium to medium-firm leather. Firmer leathers hold their shape better and stand up to the elastic over time, so it’s best to avoid very soft leathers like goatskin, sheepskin, or upholstery-style hides.
If you’re going for a Louise Carmen or Paper Republic–type look, stick with vegetable-tanned leather—especially Italian “vachetta” from tanneries like La Bretagna, Conceria Walpier, or Badalassi Carlo. In my photos, I use Minerva Smooth (Badalassi Carlo). If you search for those leathers, you’ll usually find suppliers near you—or you can order directly from Italy through Buy Leather Online.
Here are a couple of options available from Amazon that we would consider suitable for this project:
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.
Choose a hole punch size that matches the diameter of the elastic cord you’re using:
- 1.5mm cord = 1.5mm / 2mm / 2.5mm hole punch
- 2mm cord = 2mm / 2.5mm / or 3mm hole punch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What style of notebook is this pattern designed for?
This pattern set is made for “travel-style” leather notebook covers that use elastic bands—popular for refillable journals with removable inserts. The layout follows the classic traveler notebook system, where elastic cords secure multiple inserts inside a single cover.
Is this compatible with Traveler’s Notebook or Midori inserts?
Traveler’s Company (formerly Midori) uses their own proprietary notebook sizes, such as Standard and Passport, which are slightly different from A6. This pattern is designed for A6 notebook inserts (105 × 148 mm) rather than Traveler’s Company inserts.
However, the construction follows the same traveler-style elastic notebook system, so if you’re familiar with Traveler’s Notebooks, the concept will feel very similar. Simply use thin A6 notebook refills instead of the proprietary Traveler’s Company sizes.
Is this a free download?
Yes. The printable PDF patterns on this page are free to download and can be printed as many times as needed for personal projects.
Are the PDF files editable?
No. The free PDF files are intended for printing only and are not editable. If you need files that can be modified or resized, please see the Laser-Ready / Source files link below the free PDF download button. Those files are freely editable and perfect for sending to a die maker or laser cutting.
What experience level is this project suited for?
This is a very beginner-friendly build. There’s no sewing—just cutting the leather and punching a few holes. If you follow the build-along video, you should be able to knock this one out without any trouble.
What leather is best for this design?
Vegetable-tanned leather is the best choice for this style, especially leathers with a medium to firm temper that hold their shape when folded. Try to avoid very soft or “floppy” leathers like sheepskin, goatskin, deer, and most upholstery leathers. You’ll find specific recommendations 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). However, you are free to do whatever you want with the end product you create using the template.
