Leather Notebook Cover Doesn't Fit? Here's What to Do

Quick answer

If your leather notebook cover doesn't fit, first check the cover's size specifications against your notebook's exact dimensions. For a cover that's slightly too big, add a notebook insert or use a spacer; if it's too small, you may need to stretch it gently or choose a cover designed for your notebook's size. When the mismatch is significant, the best solution is to select a cover that's specifically made for your notebook model.

You just received a beautiful leather notebook cover, but your notebook slides around inside or barely fits. This is a common issue, especially with handmade covers that are crafted to fit specific notebook sizes. The good news is that many fit problems have simple fixes, but some require a different cover altogether.

This guide helps you diagnose the problem, try practical solutions, and know when to stop and choose a cover that's truly compatible with your notebook.

Diagnose the fit issue

Start by measuring both your notebook and the cover's interior. Use a ruler to measure the notebook's height, width, and thickness. Then measure the cover's interior pocket or the space between the flaps. Compare these numbers to the cover's listed specifications. For example, a cover designed for a Hobonichi Weeks (regular size 11x22cm) will be too small for a larger A5 notebook.

Also, consider the notebook's thickness. Some covers, like the Leather Hobonichi Weeks Mega Cover, are updated to fit thicker notebooks with additional slots. If your notebook is thicker than the cover's intended capacity, it may feel too tight. Conversely, a thin notebook in a cover designed for a thicker one will slide around.

• Measure the notebook's height, width, and thickness before comparing to the cover's specs.
• Check if the cover is designed for a specific notebook brand or size, like Hobonichi Weeks or A5.

Fix a cover that's too big

If your notebook is smaller than the cover, the simplest fix is to add a notebook insert or a spacer. Many leather covers, like the Hobonichi Weeks Mega Cover, have additional slots for inserts, which can fill the extra space and keep your notebook secure. You can also use a thin cardboard or felt pad as a temporary spacer.

Another option is to use the cover as a wallet or folio. Some covers, like the Leather Hobonichi Weeks Mega Cover, can be used as a stand-alone wallet, so you can carry cards and cash in the slots, which also adds bulk to hold the notebook in place. This is a practical solution if you prefer a slim carry.

• Add a notebook insert or a thin spacer to fill the extra space.
• Use the cover's card slots to add bulk and functionality.

Fix a cover that's too small

If the cover is too small, you might be tempted to stretch it. Leather can stretch slightly, but it's risky and may damage the stitching or shape. For a cover that's just slightly tight, you can try inserting your notebook and gently working the leather over it, but stop if you feel resistance. Never force it.

A better approach is to check if the cover is designed for a different notebook size. For example, a cover for the Hobonichi Cousin A5 won't fit a standard A5 notebook if it's designed for the Cousin's specific dimensions. In that case, look for a cover that explicitly states compatibility with your notebook model.

• Avoid forcing a notebook into a cover that's too small.
• Check the cover's intended notebook model and size before buying.

Know when to choose a different cover

If the fit issue is significant—your notebook is more than a few millimeters off—or if you've tried the fixes and the cover still doesn't work, it's time to consider a different cover. Handmade leather covers are often sized for specific notebooks, so choosing a cover that matches your notebook's brand and size is the most reliable way to get a perfect fit.

For example, if you use a Hobonichi Weeks Mega, the Leather Hobonichi Weeks Mega Cover is designed to fit it with an additional notebook slot. Similarly, the Leather Zippered Hobonichi Cousin A5 Planner Folio is made for the Cousin A5. If your notebook is a standard A5, look for a cover that's explicitly sized for standard A5 notebooks.

• If the cover is more than a few millimeters off, choose a different cover.
• Look for covers that specify compatibility with your notebook brand and size.

Diagnosis: Your fit problem, step by step

• Symptom: Your notebook slides around inside the cover, or it's too tight to close. Identify whether the cover is too big or too small.
• Likely cause: The cover is designed for a different notebook size or thickness than yours. Check the cover's specifications against your notebook's measurements.
• Corrective action: For a too-big cover, add an insert or use the card slots. For a too-small cover, try gently stretching, but stop if you feel resistance. If the fix works, you're done. If not, proceed to the next step.
• Stop or choose another option: If the cover is significantly off or you can't get a secure fit, choose a cover that's explicitly designed for your notebook model. A compatible cover is the most reliable solution.

Covers designed for specific notebooks

• Leather Hobonichi Weeks Mega Cover - C. H. Ocean Blue: New updated version! It now fits the Hobonichi Weeks Mega with an additional notebook slot. This black leather Hobonichi Weeks / Weeks Mega Cover Wallet can be used as a stand-alone wallet or can be incorporated in your Traveler's Notebook seamlessly (regular size 11x22cm). If you use a Hobonichi Weeks Mega, this cover is designed to fit it, and the additional slot can also hold a thin insert, which helps if your notebook is slightly thinner than the cover's capacity.
• Leather Zippered Hobonichi Cousin A5 Planner Folio - Undyed Leather: If you are looking for a wider solution, check out our Expansi A5 Zip Folios. Made in Turkey. This is a handmade leather zippered Hobonichi A5 planner and iPad Mini folio. This folio is specifically made for the Hobonichi Cousin A5, so if you have a different A5 notebook, it may not fit perfectly. Always check the cover's intended notebook model before purchasing.

A leather notebook cover that doesn't fit can be frustrating, but you have options. Start by diagnosing the problem, try simple fixes like adding an insert or using the cover's slots, and know when to stop and choose a cover that's made for your notebook. With the right cover, you'll get a snug, secure fit that protects your notebook for years.