Download free leather journal and notebook cover patterns in printable PDF format. This page provides a set of DIY templates for making travel-style, elastic leather notebook covers commonly used for refillable journals.
The patterns include multiple layouts sized for traditional Traveler-style notebooks, including pocket, passport, and standard traveler formats. Files are intended for traditional hand cutting and stitching, and are provided in both Letter and A4 print formats with square or rounded corner options. You can print the patterns as many times as you like, but the files aren’t editable.
If you’d prefer the editable source files, check out the “Laser Ready Files” link below.
Note: Be sure to print at 100% scale for accurate sizing.
Finished Leather Journal Cover Images
Template Options
⬇️ DOWNLOAD FREE PDF PATTERNFree DIY Notebook Covers Template Set - 3.40 MB
- Laser Ready / Source Files – Notebook Cover (.ai, .svg, .eps)
- Acrylic Template Set – Notebook Cover (acrylic)
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.
If you need any general assistance with how our patterns work, check out our How To Use MAKESUPPLY Leather Templates Guide!
Want to try out the tri-fold version of this pattern set? Check it out here!
👇 Get notified when new free templates drop! 👇
Video Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What style of notebook is this pattern designed for?
This pattern set is designed for “travel-style”, elastic band leather notebook covers, commonly used for refillable journals with removable inserts. The layout follows the traditional traveler (Midori) notebook system that uses elastic cords to hold multiple inserts.
What notebook sizes are included?
The patterns include layouts sized for traditional traveler notebook formats, including:
- Passport
- Standard traveler size
Each size is provided as a printable PDF pattern. You can find some suggested notebook insert options in the Inventory of Tools section below.
Is this compatible with Traveler’s Notebook or Midori inserts?
Yes. These patterns are designed to work with traveler-style notebook inserts, including those commonly used with Traveler’s Notebook and Midori-style journals. You may use inserts that are slightly smaller than those official sizes, but you cannot use sizes larger. This product is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brand.
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.
Project Inventory
Product | Description | Link |
Fits (3) standard “Traveler” size notebooks by default, but more can be added. | ; | |
Fits (3) standard “Pocket” size notebooks by default, but more can be added. | ; | |
Fits (3) standard “Passport” size 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 | ; | |
Recommend 2/2.5mm for the hole size. | ; | |
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 | ; |
Leather Selection
In this video we used Newbury Leathers South Street leather (wheat) – 5.5-6.5oz (~2.2-2.6mm) thick. This pattern works best for a leather that is in the 4oz – 6.5oz range and has at least a “medium” hand. If you are using a thinner leather make sure it is relatively firm to stand up to the pressure of the elastic. AVOID sheepskin, deerskin, goatskin, or upholstery leather as it will be too soft for this style of cover. Cowhide will be your best bet.
Here are a couple options available from Amazon that we would consider suitable for this project:
For projects inspired by brands like Louise Carmen or Paper Republic, vegetable-tanned leather is recommended. Italian vachetta leathers are commonly used for this style, with popular options coming from tanneries such as Badalassi Carlo and Conceria Walpier. These leathers are widely available through local suppliers or international retailers that ship directly from Italy. You can check Rocky Mountain Leather Supply or order direct from Italy. We order from both of these companies regularly when we want the good stuff!
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 temp
