Review: Midori Traveler's Notebook (A Man's Perspective)

The Midori Traveler's Notebook is a Japanese notebook "system," consisting of a leather cover and various "inserts" which can be placed inside in myriad ways to build a very customizable and personal notebook.
In this review, I'll be looking at the Midori from the perspective of someone who is interested in using it as a catch-all journal/notebook/sketchbook. We'll do a package opening, point out some of the important features, show ways in which it can be set up with various inserts, show you how I'VE set it up and how I've been using it, and finally, I'll give my final verdict.
Enjoy!
Midori at Goulet Pens:
www.gouletpens....
Midori at Baum-kuchen:
www.baum-kuchen....
The Spencerian-style lettering guide comes from "Ame's Guide to Self-Instruction," which can be found here:
www.iampeth.com....
The line guide:
www.mylifeallin...
Thanks for watching! If you like what you've seen, please rate this video, tell a friend, and subscribe to the Stuff&Things channel.
/ stuffnth. .

[@vleek07]

Love this. I know you call it a "man's perspective," but as a female graphic designer who loves clean lines and uniformity, I too got extremely worried when I saw the community built around midori customization. Like you said; cool if you have the time and resources to turn it into a scrap book, but mostly overwhelming to me. Glad to see this more minimal approach from your review!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

vleek07 - I'm glad you liked the review! "Clean lines and uniformity." Count me in.

[@vleek07]

Stuff&Things For sure. I just ordered my first Midori notebook and extra inserts last night. Mine will have a very similar set up to yours. Cheers!

[@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122]

He is not a “man”, but rather “man-child”. His mother didn’t teach him basic manners, so this rеtаrdеd child wears a hat INDOORS 😂 Like, what the actual fuсk 🤬

[@Kovacs47]

I´m a woman and it is best review I´ve seen about Midori.

[@corrynpatterson]

+cindybin2001 What do you mean? Why should the fact that he has tattoos bother you or anyone else?

[@corrynpatterson]

+cindybin2001 Alright, let's break this interrogation down, shall we? What is the deal with you people? > Well thank you for grouping me into the category of "internet women who can't see why we shouldn't get tattoos". Sounds like a fun club. But I was genuinely confused as to why you were so concerned about this man's decision to get tattoos so I asked you about it. How old are you? > 16, soon to be 17. Do you have kids? > I don't think that would be a good idea at my age. Would you want your daughter to grow up and get tattoos? > Not necessarily. I don't think tattoos are a wonderful idea but if it's for a real purpose other than to "look cool" then I wouldn't object. Plus if she's an adult, there's not much I'd be able to do anyway. The same goes for if I had a son. Would you want her to date or marry a guy with tattoos? > Now this is kind of a messed up question. Are you insinuating that men with tattoos are horrible people that don't deserve to marry someone without tattoos? I think your view on tattooed people is a bit skewed. Tattoos do not mean that the person is a bad person and that is quite a prejudiced view you have. We're all humans. Ink on your skin shouldn't deem whether or not they'd be a good mate. It's kind of like saying black people and white people shouldn't be together because of skin color difference or people who wear certain clothing shouldn't date a person with a different style. What a person should look for in another is for a personality that fits theirs. Would you be attracted to a guy with tattoos? > Yes. I think tattoos are somewhat beautiful. I mean, a giant skull on a person's back or arm or any other area wouldn't be attractive but I like art so body art can be attractive if done correctly. But ultimately it depends on the guy's personality. His physical appearance and body modifications are not my priority in choosing a mate, nor are they a deciding factor. And can't you see that it can limit your job opportunities? > Yep. And so does dying your hair. It's quite silly. I can see why people wouldn't want to hire someone, say, with a swastika tattooed on their forehead. But it's personal opinion. If someone wants to overlook a potentially hardworking employee just because of some ink on their skin, then that's their loss. - You seem to be quite superficial and I hope you get over that. Tattoos don't make someone a bad person. Some people want to put art on themselves and that's their decision. Who are you to intrude on that and persecute them for it as well as assert your opinion as if it's the correct one? That's the thing about opinions, none of them are correct because they aren't fact. Let people do what they want. So long as what they're doing isn't harming themselves or others, then why should it be a problem to get yourself involved in?

[@corrynpatterson]

cindybin2001 You're only going to face opposition because it's hate speech. Treat others the way you want to be treated. No one is superior to the other. I hope you realize that one day. God bless and have a great day!

[@rosipm101]

+cindybin2001 Trolling much today? There is nothing that sais you have to click on a suggested vidoe. Especially when its about smoking tabacco. Seeing how you said you try to avoid these type of videos. But of course you go ahead and click on it. Some self control you have there. You break your own rule and then put people down aboit their own choices to use tabacco or have tatoos. If you don't have any better self control then to not click on a video that is clearly labeled then you only have yourself to blame. Mabey to keep yourself safe you should not be set loose on KZbin without some adult supervision. Better yet quite trolling. PS, before this proclaimed troll starts to flap her pie whole about me, I will save her the trouble. I am a grandmother who thinks there is nothing wrong with smoking pot. I belive it is good for the soul.

[@corrynpatterson]

rosipm101 I don't think pot is good for anything except those who are dieing but we all have our opinions.

[@firefly1013]

YES. Thank you so much for this. I had to wade through an ocean of washi-taped, stickered up, and yes, "bedazzled" Traveler's journals before finding this. Just what I was looking for. So much more beautiful the way you have it!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Glad you liked the review!

[@robertmaxey5406]

Yes, some people do love their Washi Tape and stickers. Too much cute for my likeing.

[@AngeredPegasus]

The review I was waiting for :) I am a woman, and I use my journals to write only, no stickers , bullet whatnots or anything. The sobriety of this journal is very appealing, thank you for the thorough presentation.

[@philipculbertson55]

I made my own travelers notebook slightly larger so books don't stick out. Being a leather worker, I sewed in a leather back pocket and used a leather/snap closure instead of the elastic band. I have been using mine for 18 months. I don't go anywhere without it. Even out to eat. I find I use it multiple times daily. I am happy to see another man using one!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Philip Culbertson - Very cool that you were able to make one of your own. That really makes it "your notebook."

[@LiaMahony]

OMG now i get it. HEAVENS I thought I was the only one who did not get the whole decorating thing. thankyou

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Lia Mahony - You're welcome! Thanks very much for watching.

[@EmilyWiggintonC]

i watched so many of the frilly reviews and i was like "this is not what i want" your review is so clean and just what i was looking for and needed for my midori purchase

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Emily Wigginton - I'm glad you found the review helpful! I appreciate you leaving a comment to let me know.

[@MlleBambi]

I would have done without the "some of these women, my god the things they do" comment underlined with sexism 19min into the video. It's unnecessary to be condescending just because this is not one of your interests.

[@TheHVermillz]

you're a savage for the breakdown of "scrapbook" videos hahah

[@RayBlake]

This is the best Midori review I've seen. And I've seen many.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Nice of you to say! I know it's a BIT long, but there seemed to be a lot to cover.

[@SummerSunset2207]

Nice job ☺

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks!

[@nancymay564]

Great review!

[@tannergodwin8498]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube better long than not

[@mizzycutenezz]

"Artsy crafty women with long painted fingernails and lots of dangly jewelry." LOL!!!! Summarized 95% of the journaling youtubers I watch in a fragmented sentence.

[@franckbynature5141]

Finally! Someone who's using a planner system that isn't pimped up to the eyeballs. I'm ADHD, so I could never have one of these really busy systems with so many things going on. I also tend to hyperfocus on tiny details, so there's always the risk that I'll spend hours decorating the planner without doing any actual planning, rendering the whole exercise futile.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Ha! Well, to each their own. Use it in any way you like!

[@kayskaht2052]

FranckByNature omg i experience the same thing with my journals/Planners! I'm obsessed with perfecting everything !!!

[@kastanymusica]

FranckByNature such a relatable comment!

[@carasbritish]

As a non scrapbooky, crafty, washi taping, type of woman, I appreciated your review so much. Maybe I have adhd because having all that "stuff" in my notebook gets me kind of stressed. I love how simple you kept everything.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Cara Rutland - I'm glad you enjoyed the video! Each to their own, but I agree with you: clean and simple.

[@janjanisbored]

Your hand writing is absolutely stunning 😭✨

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks! :-)

[@HannahSaysRaaawr]

After watching loads of midori reviews, this is by far my favorite! Its brilliant to see how you're actually USING it without a massive explanation of how you have decorated it. And so your comment about all these people decorating theirs made me laugh so much.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

HannahSaysRaaawr - I'm glad you liked it! To each their own, but I definitely buy journals to WRITE in.

[@MotoMarta]

I'm just gonna say it, KZbin needs more manly man videos of stationary things.

[@donnajaemoon]

I agree, because I’ve introduced my son to this system. And I was looking for a video he’d actually watch. Hell, I even skip those “artsy” ones posted by young women with the loud stiletto nails. I’ll have to rewatch to catch Bradley’s humorous description of them, which I found to be quite entertaining. But I’m sharing this one with my son AND saving it as a guide when I assemble mine. Thanks Bradley.

[@miscellaneousista]

Totally agree, saying this as a 👩. Not everyone is into crea bea mode when it comes to using a planner or notebook. Sometimes you just want some old-fashioned productive functionality. Great videos man. Keep up the good work and please please do more of these vids on systems like Midori, discbound, Jibun etc; and preferably dupe versions of them since not everybode has Gates’ pockets ya’ know

[@micaylab1]

Agreed.

[@_pernille_]

Yes! Even though I'm female I'm just not into stickers and washi-tape. I love functionality and keeping it simple. Just one pen and paper. 😊

[@midlife_crossroads]

You mean stationery things?

[@tabitwin]

"Some of these women, my god, the things they do" 🙌🙌😂

[@hulamunki]

LOL so hard! excellent!

[@nikolalutov8898]

What about 'It's not anywhere near as thick as some of the women out there...' :D

[@tc88101]

Kelly Miller I use planner and I don't scrapbook or get into the decorative part of planning but I think it is nice that people can do what they like with these notebooks. To each their own 😊

[@SimonGoodacre]

Kelly Miller I may have sprayed the soda I was drinking out of my mouth at that point!

[@MakerandDreamer]

Kelly Miller I don't personally scrap book in mine. But it's an investment to have one, I think people should do whatever makes them happy 😊 with their own journal

[@bec11mort]

I had no intention of watching this entire video (I've had mine for several years and just picked up a second Midori notebook), but half an hour later I've reached the end. You did a fantastic job of presenting the notebook! I love your sense of humor and the fact that you're real about the Midori as an everyday notebook.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Bec Mortensen - I'm glad I was able to pull you in!

[@hajimesenpai7996]

Finally a review with less decorations!! Thanks for this!!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@katiedavisvids]

Hilarity! I love your description of the Midori Cult. I've been watching the videos about customising and stickering and beddazling with fascination. I can't look away. What a relief to watch a video without cutesy stickers and charms. I bought a 'fauxdori' on sale to see if I'd like the system and about 5 minutes after it arrived I ordered a Midori. Love your elastic customisation and I'll be using that in mine. Thank you!

[@EmilyTanica]

It took me a lot longer than I would like to find this type of review of the Midori. Thank you for being such a breath of fresh air.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks for watching!

[@MyLifeMits]

A nice change from all the midori traveler's notebook videos out there. I will admit, I tend to decorate my pages a bit, sticking in ephemera and pieces from my travels, but not one to stuff it with many notebooks. I usually just keep 1-2 + zip pocket and folder. Great review and thanks for sharing :)

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

MyLifeMits - Thanks for watching and chiming in! I think I've seen a few of your videos on KZbin. Your creativity is wonderful.

[@anitacollins5532]

How does the zip pocket fit in? Did I miss that bit? lol

[@VampireGrl4eva]

Before I make a comment, I'm a young traditional artist who loves drawing and painting in sketchbooks. And I love watching what other people make within their sketchbooks. So, I watched one artist's video on her own Midori Traveler's Notebook. Just that video alone and what that woman put into her Midori notebook was truly something to behold - the inside of hers was like pastels and flora just puked all over her stuff - which was mostly calendars and to-do lists, not many sketches or artwork. I could definitely see where people would be turned away from this product just by all the crazy and creative things you could do with just the shell of a journal and its emptiness, especially when you watch so many videos on just how much you can fit in there. I didn't even know that people used these books for things other than writing or putting itty bitty sketchbooks into. In other words, nice video - you didn't go overboard.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Mina the KitKat - I have to admit, in spite of the fact that I poked a little good-natured fun at the whole scrap-book movement, I do find what some of those people do to their journals pretty impressive! Far too time-consuming for me though. ;-) Thanks for watching!

[@techne9]

+Stuff&Things Thanks for the great introduction and hints. At first thought your jibes at 'the women' were kind of condescending. But, the longer I listened, and got to know your 'voice,' the more I felt like you were just the male side of the tribe. I like your attitude and your openness. I'm planning on seeking out more of your vids. Oh, and you gave me enough information to make my own Midori-style journal, with great detail about the function of the bands and how you tweaked them. Thanks.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm glad the video was useful to you! Thanks for watching the entire way through and giving me the benefit of the doubt.

[@Marie_Elaine]

Huzzah!!! A video where I can see the notebook sans scrapbooking washi tape and glitter! Thank you! The Midori just reminds me so much of my grandfather and how he kept his notes and scribbles. Again thanks for a non pink and purple review...I'm leaning towards using it for actual travel and journaling whilst traveling ;) this was most helpful.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Glad you liked it! I was drawn to it initially because it reminded me of the "Grail Diary" in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade!"

[@spacecat7715]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube That's exactly why I am getting mine. The brown Midori Traveler's Notebook reminds me exactly of Indiana Jones. 😃

[@chetandoshi7053]

Finally, a man's perspective on Midori notebooks. Brilliant review.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching!

[@MooInShades]

if you purchase your midori from a japanese website you're gonna save a LOT of money. you'll spend little over 30 bucks with 3 notebooks, the leather binding, the plastic pouch. around 40 bucks if you add the crafting pouch and the rubber bands (each insert costs around 3 dollars). furthermore, if you don't want any of the notebooks to poke out when you have 3 or more inside the leather cover, you can use the rubber bands this way: take the back cover of the first notebook and the front cover of the mid notebook and wrap the leastic around them. do the same with the mid notebook's back cover and the third notebook front cover. the middle round elastic still goes in the middle of the center notebook. you can add up to 5 notebooks if you like it bulky and indiana jones-like, no need to punch any extra hole in your leather cover. if you always align the back and front cover of each notebook they'll stay aligned (the leather cover tho will get shorter and shorter on the sides cause leather obviously doesn't stretch). one last thing: if you don't want to use rubber bands because they break easily and are too thick you can use some thick cotton thread loop which works wonders and doesn't stretch nor become loose over time. (yes i'm a woman, no i don't decorate my travel journal, i actually use it) www.pencils.jp/

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+MooInShades - Thanks for all the tips! I'm sure they'll be useful to my viewers. I also went with my customized elastic bands because I wanted to easily be able to change out one insert at a time without having to touch the other inserts in the notebook.

[@etabetapi]

+Words Engraved depends on the method you choose. You can see the price of shipping by the Small Packets options on their website, that's the cheap option. Otherwise they offer EMS courier shipment which is very fast, track able but expensive. 1500 yen for the passport size with the zip pocket, 2200 yen for the regular size, 2 plastic inserts, 5 booklets, the elastics. It varies with the weight of the parcel

[@gyrlgeorge]

MoolnShades - please do a video on your explanation to keep the notebooks aligned !

[@melodybales2038]

Hey! I'm a crafty lady, however I appreciate simplicity and customization. I really liked how you added your own elastics. I saw coffee monsters co (crafty journal channel) has a system for adding in elastic that is a little different. What she does is loops an extra elastic sideways rather than longways, which I think saves a bit of length and you don't have to poke any extra holes. Might be worth trying for anyone who likes playing wit the layout!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Nice! Check out my review of the "Endless Stationery Explorer Journal." They have three elastics as standard. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHOvf4x-mMaspZo

[@Kerianna]

I have been thinking of using a Midori-style notebook, and have watched some videos on KZbin to see how others use them. My reaction was exactly the same as yours: a mixture of feeling overwhelmed and a sense of awe. I only planned to use mine for writing and drawing, and so was caught completely unprepared the limitless creativity that so many women have for their notebooks. I could not imagine the amount of effort and time that they have put in! The truth is, I think a small part of me felt dwarfed when compared to what they have done... That's why it was a relief to find your review and channel. It is very comforting to know that there are others who choose to use the notebook as a simple notebook. Your thorough review not only helped me learn practical ways of using the Midori system, and also made me laugh at times. Even though the video was almost half-an-hour long, I did not feel bored at all. Thank you so much for offering a practical, functional, and straight-to-the-point review on this notebook. It is much needed in a sea of very well-decorated notebook videos. Cheers =) (A comment left by an Asian woman in her early 30s, who did not feel offended at all by the comments in the video regarding pronunciation and gender).

[@CesarIsaacPerez]

A man's perspective. I was researching these notebooks last year, wish this vid would have been up by then. Very in depth and cool review.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Cesar “Isaac” Perez - Thanks! I hope you found it useful, even if it was a bit late.

[@debidavid4874]

+Stuff&Things hh

[@xam09]

oh my your voice though..have you ever considered reading for an audiobook?

[@casemcdonald2152]

I think he does. I've watched a few of his videos where he goes into "voiceover mode".

[@alanberry2930]

I have filled countless spiral notebooks and plain notepads at work over the past 25 years. I write down everything that happens during the day be it notes I take during phone conversations, complicated calculations, random thoughts, topic research scribbles, informal meeting minute notes, the occasional to-do, network design schematics, etc. I've decided to order my own MTN after having watched this video. Although ugly spirals and notepads have been a constant companion for me as long as I can remember, the MTN system will now take its rightful place by my side. Thanks for posting!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

***** - I'm glad my review helped you make a decision to get a Midori. Sounds like you'll need to stock up on a lot of inserts!

[@nektariakazakopoulou553]

OMG!!! as one of those scrapbooky / blingy / over the top kinda woman... you had me in stitches with this video!!! Your info was really really helpful, my partner has been asking me to make him a notebook and your perspective is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you for the helpful review! PS your penmanship is amazing!!! (off to see your video about improving my handwriting!) Thanks for sharing Nektaria

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Nektaria Kazakopoulou - I'm glad you found the video helpful (and that you had a sense of humor about it). Thanks for watching!

[@taylorrolyat2672]

This is probably the coolest way i've seen somebody personalize their Midori! Awesome ideas!!!! Thank you so much for sharing!!!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Taylor Rolyat - I'm glad you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@euneece15]

i love your intro commentary. hilarious. thank you for a different style of review

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Eunbe Hong - My pleasure! Thanks for watching.

[@MotoMarta]

Why am I just seeing this now KZbin?? Why you hide this from me all this time!? This is the best ever review vid of this flap of leather with expensive rubber bands!

[@sweetwaterfarmhouse1074]

omg....this is a breath of fresh air. since discovering the midori, attempting to make one, ordering one, and receiving it, ive wAtched so many videos. this is the first one that didnt make me feel guilty for not wanting to add fifty inserts, stickers, and artwork. ive spent too much money buying a bunch of crap. lol. my fault. im very girly but geesh! thanks.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

The point of this notebook is to use it in the way YOU want, so no need to feel guilty. I'm glad you enjoyed the review!

[@sweetwaterfarmhouse1074]

Stuff&Things youre so right and its my own damn fault. Lol.

[@moonbeambeam]

Thanks for the review. I love how simple yet versatile the Midori is. I love how the review is to the point and covers everything possible.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

moonbeam - I'm glad you found the review useful! It's definitely a very elegant system.

[@BrewGuyMike]

Your penmanship is awesome! You make me miss my old fountain pen that I used to have. I lost it in the woods some time ago and haven't brought myself to spending 75-150 on a new one

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'll pretend that I deserve the compliment (I'm trying to improve my penmanship) and just say "thank you!" Yes, fountain pens can be pretty damn costly to replace.

[@pohyokelo]

I just found this video as i have just purchased my own Midori TN. I am female but i am not scrapbooker type. I am going to be using it as a planner and journal. In August 2019, this video is still relevant. So thank you.

[@treswaluya]

"... Some of these women, my god, the things they do ..." totally agree with you! Hahahaha.. It seems like I can't find a non-scrapbooky use for this Journal but thank god I found your video.. Good review, and clever idea to install another rubber bands to the cover!

[@christinatschopp6683]

I'm a woman and I know what you mean. I'm pretty minimalistic when it comes to my Traveler's Notebook.

[@devanshishah9355]

This is the best video that there could be on this travelers notebook. Most functional and clean review I've ever seen without all the extra unwanted stuff! 😍

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Wow, thanks!

[@Iggypox]

Regardless of how crazy you can get with the decoration of your inserts, I still think it's a reflection of one's creativity, and so, a very personal choice that has nothing to do with gender. I love how happy people seem to be when showing off their own Midori! Now rewinding to figure out how you added those elastics, I need to do that to mine:) Ty for the review!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I agree! In spite of the fun I was poking, I think some of the things people have come up with are very cool. I should have mentioned that I actually used one long elastic and strung that through the 8 holes I made, tying the two ends together under the tin clasp. I think you'll be able to see how I did it from the close-ups.

[@gamalielshapira]

Every once in a while this pops up in my recommendations, and I watch it again. Ages like fine leather.

[@Puzzles_and_Parks_with_Kyla]

After watching a copious number of "scrapbooked" Midori notebooks I was feeling intimidated. Although I am somewhat creative I certainly don't have the time or patience to bling out a journal just so that I can write things down. Nothing wrong with those that do! But I don't travel with craft supplies generally. After finding your video I was sold on the system! Truly looking for a notebook for journaling while travelling and planning and your review was what I was looking for. Currently on Goulet Pens they have a package for the regular sized Midori, zipper case, 3 inserts and the rubber bands for $65.....I am waiting patiently for shipping confirmation now.... Thank you for the video!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Kyla Norris - So you took the plunge on a Midori? Nice! I'm sure you'll enjoy using it very much.

[@angelanbenjamin7980]

As a newbie to Midori TN, this is the best guide on how-to-setup your midori. Thanks for the vid :)

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks for watching!

[@pc4n62004]

You’re hilarious! “Some of these women, the things they do!” So funny. I’m one of those women. I like your set up. Very minimalistic. I like a wider 8x5 size inserts. I really like the folder insert and the plastic pocket. The coin the you added to the elastic closure is a nice touch. Great vid.

[@paperandlight1173]

This is great! Thank you for this review, as someone who also loves this notebook but does necessarily relate to the scrapping world that has grown up around it!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+PaperandLight - I'm glad you enjoyed it! I appreciate you taking the time to comment.

[@_kmCarter]

I am a woman, but I am a no-fuss writer. (I do have female family members who paper-craft, and I can confirm; that stuff can get… dense. 😂) I really appreciate all the handy suggestions and tools for using the notebook in a writer-centric manner. 🙏🏼

[@erikmyers9934]

Finally a male view point on this. I have been looking at this notebook for a while now. However, I wasn't sure how to put it together. Thanks brother!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Erik Myers - My pleasure!

[@anitacollins5532]

Thank you so much for this video ! :) I've just bought a Midori after tearing my hair out trying to find out the * actual * size of the regular. I have watched so many videos of women taking at least 20 minutes before they actually open the notebook lol ( cue ripping more hair out :) So it was great to come by here and see a video that gets straight to the point ! I came here via someone who mentioned your you tube channel on instagram. Thanks again and keep up the great work ! :) Anita

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Great! I'm glad you found the channel!

[@ohiohamguy]

Nice review, Midori rocks I have used mine for over a year now as a planner/everything. Nice to see another man's view on it.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+ohiohamguy - Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment!

[@mrykzgrl1]

Great video! I was beginning to think that I was the only woman on the planet who didn't see a planner as a craft item. You were cracking me up!

[@Tippel3]

Thank you very, very much! I'm thinking about buying one and only find videos of how they set up their TN with stickers and so on. I always wondered how they get in so much inlets with only one rubberband. Now I know! Thank you so much for really showing the Midory and explain how it works and what are necessary extras ore additionals to buy. So far the best video I watched in the last 3 days and the only one that really helped me

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm glad I could help!

[@janeswalden1]

Ahhh YES! Thank you for your non-blingy review. I'm 59 and am so tired of seeing these young women spending so much of their time (what happened to time management??!!) putting cutesy stickers and layers of inspirational cards all over their pages. I use my own imagination (not someone else's) and use these journals/planners for their are intended....for inspiration to be creative myself and/or to plan out my days and keep organized. Love your review on this Midori and also the fountain pens. Contemplating a Midori so coming across your review was refreshing and inspiring. Love how you customized your cover.

[@pessoawoolf507]

Journals can be works of art. There's no universal/right or wrong way to use an empty journal. I love seeing people's collages and drawings. Otherwise, why show it off or get a fancy journal simply to jot down your grocery lists?

[@Buttersweet1]

To each his own.

[@alexreywils]

As someone who is generally always doodling and needing to write down notes, this seems like a great system. I've tried watching countless videos to see how I would like it, and a majority of them focused on decorating and appearances - not the best thing to go off of. Thanks for the simple, right to the facts review!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Alexis Negron - My pleasure! If you do end up buying a Midori, I hope it works out for you.

[@alondrajuarez10]

Haha absolutely loved this video. I'm one of those crazy women who are super into the decoration, but definitely never to the point where it is not functional as my everyday planner (because then what would be the point??). Thank you for this great review!! Now I have a video to show the men (or non-decorative type gals) who want to get into the MTN world.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm glad you liked it! All in good fun of course. ;-) If my review helps get a few people into the notebook who may not have tried it otherwise, all the better!

[@DioneN]

Nice to see a man's perspective on journaling. Love the simplicity of yours. And you have gorgeous handwriting!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

DioneN - Nice of you to say, though I still think it has lots of room for improvement!

[@Tom_-]

It's funny how this nice and seemingly well-constructed item has become such an icon for the 'artsy' and pretentious crowd, with their Instragram and Pintrest accounts cluttered with aspirational items, photos of exotic houses etc and whatever else they do. Good to see a straight-forward, practical review for once!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

u_dun_goofed - I was poking fun, but I actually don't think there's anything wrong with the arty uses that some people put the book to, but yes, I like it for its practicality. Thanks for watching!

[@xangelux]

You Sr. Have made my day, I've been searching for ways to journal and I only find scrap book tutorials, I'll search for midori ones now :)

[@zynzane9680]

It's only a matter of time before you end up with some washi tape in there. When it happens, just know, it's okay. You are still a man. Washi tape is convenient, and colorful, and comes in so many colors and patterns. It's okay to fall in love with it. You are secure in your masculinity. Why have a journal if you are not going to fill it with magical tape? Waaaaashiiiii........

[@joannemarkov]

True, I mean he did add little bits to the strap (the tuppence) and the ribbon!

[@RichGriffiths99]

I don't know what this means but I want it.

[@ChintanPandya01]

What's the point of it other than it looks pretty? I am all for sticking something in there that has some meaning. Like flower from a special date or something. But what's with a tape?

[@PhilippeCarphin]

I want some!

[@nsbhater]

Chelsea Donovan 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣

[@wearestardust77]

Thanks for this video. I clicked on it because the title suggested that your use of the notebook would be closer to how prefer to approach note taking and planning. I was not disappointed. Funny and useful. Thanks again.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Stephanie Kitching - My pleasure! I'm glad you found the review helpful.

[@jordantfk]

The masculinity is strong in this one. Ugh, I had to watch drag race after this video so I could feel gay again. Anyway, this was actually very informative. I liked how objective he was, and how educational he kept it. And yes, I'm one of those women with the washi tapes and everything, but I also liked his simpler way of doing journaling. As he said, this is like a cult, there's a whole world of travelers notebook writers and there's room for everybody, so... good for him!

[@marthalentz]

LOVE masculinity! The more the merrier!

[@psychi1465]

Very informative video and very entertaining. You kind of remind me of Mark Crilley with the way you do your voices and know some Japanese. A few months ago, one of my favorite KZbinrs, MissKerrieJ, made a video about her Midori Traveler's Notebook. As soon as I saw it, I wanted to get one myself because I am a person who likes to draw and write and keep track of all sorts of things. It seemed like the perfect thing for me. But once I saw how much everything was, I knew I couldn't get one right away. I'm only 15 and I don't have a job yet so I need to save up for things. I recently purchased a notebook with similar features as the midori, lined paper, some pocket/folder things etc, just not as customizable as the midori, although I still love it. I intend to save up and get the midori eventually, and when I do I'll probably have it similar to the way you have. I don't like to overly decorate something such as a notebook. I may jazz it up just a bit for visual interest, being an extremely visual person, but I like for a place where I keep my thought to be as uncluttered as possible. This is my fist video of yours I have watched and greatly enjoyed it, keep up the good work!

[@AndreNygen]

As a dude who loves the Midori journals, I thank you. it was entertaining and very informative.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Andre Nygen - I'm glad!

[@maverickny3652]

Completely agree with Ray and Omar - super review! If it's any consolation not all gals decorate and prettify their notebooks, I sure don't!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Ha! I was being a little facetious in my review. Thanks for watching!

[@carolcadiz8287]

Finally! A video for how to use the Travelers notebook without the arts n' crafts! I'm a busy entrepreneur/ lawyer (female) and have no interest in pasting pressed flowers into my notebooks. I just want something functional to keep various aspects of my life organized in one place. Thank you for this amazing video!

[@Dracosekt]

Thank you for a true review without all the fluff :-)

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Patti M - My pleasure. Thanks for watching!

[@willowt4000]

I am a woman and this is such an amazing review. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Probably one of the best. I do enjoy being creative but I am not like all the other crafty ladies I've come across. I do plan on making it super functional not just "pretty". I also love that you write words and their definition because I actually plan on doing that once I set everything up and it was a nice surprise seeing someone else does it. Thank you for this review!

[@lovenetta18]

This is one of the best reviews for the midori I have seen on KZbin. It definitely made me laugh "did I just join some weird midori traveler's notebook cult" Hashanah.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+lovenetta18 - I'm glad you liked it! I'll have to do a followup soon.

[@GoldieLola]

Thank god!!! I've been watching all the crafty journalers videos for severaldays on the Midori and thought my head would explode! This video is awesome! Informative, funny and gratefully sans washi, stickers and crafts. I had just ordered my midori, picked up a Hobonichi Weeks to place in the middle and some lined paper inserts and dunzo! Great stuff... And things!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+GoldieLola - I'm glad you found the review useful. I was looking for a straight-forward review when I ordered mine, so I figured I'd record one myself. Thanks for watching!

[@a.o9656]

Haha I loved watching that. It is true. Some girls I have watched go so crazy over decorating and scrapping whatever they get their hands on. Eg planners, midori, Hobonichi... and I just wonder... the time spent on decorating your planner could actually be used to do things LISTED on your to do list. That being said... I love this man version midori. Thanks for sharing

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Ally Ong - As long as "decorate my Midori" is listed in their bullet journal, then there's no problem. ;-) Thanks for watching!

[@theglowingbrownie5124]

I do junk journaling and I love carrying mine to go through the pages when I have a chance. it relaxes me.

[@masterhide]

I love your modifications with the extra bands! Might steal that idea. I love stationary, especially Japanese, but I like things pretty minimal. What I like about Midori is that it's beautiful without all of the bedazzle. It's nice to see a midori used as a 'normal' notebook.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks for watching!

[@gradon566]

Brilliant! Finally! ...one who appreciates the basics of TNs! I look forward to viewing more of your idea-packed vids!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

GRA DON - Thanks! My channel mostly deals with other things, but I'm sure I'll be posting more on subjects like this soon.

[@DiaMeraz]

Great video! Can't wait to show my husband. I started by decorating while planning, but found it too time consuming. I still need a little bit of a creative outlet though, so I try to pretty it up a bit :-) trying to convince my husband to you a spare one I made a a journal. Thanks for sharing!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

FiloFaxyGirl - Thanks for watching! I hope my video can help.

[@lostyeti3044]

Strange, last night I was searching online for a good notebook/journal. Then you post this. You sold me on it!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm enjoying it a lot!

[@witchhazelscauldron]

I'm finding this pretty late in the game, but glad I did. I was getting down about what a failed woman I am for using my journal to...journal and my planner to *gasp* plan. Thanks for the review, I'm looking forward to watching some of your other videos!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm glad you found the review! And nope, there's nothing wrong with using your journal as a journal.

[@williambirmingham1999]

Great video, it's one of the best reviews of any product I watch on KZbin.

[@kashachiang3100]

Your handwriting!!!! So beautiful.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Kasha Chiang - Thank you! I've been trying to improve, but I still have a LONG way to go.

[@MichaelYISRAEL]

Totally I'm agree. I am a meticulous/methodic person, like to be practical as well. I also like the idea of the Midori method of organization and gathering all together, very useful. I got my Midori in the summer of 2016 and every time I see make to use it. I write thoughts, plan ideas, I keep note of my research, references and sometime become my diary. I definitely recommend it. like the video.

[@Marie_Elaine]

And the Spencerian link.... fantastic!

[@manlikegus238]

You know, I forgot all about this channel. Its brilliant. It's great for when you're stuck for a gift idea. Glad You're still going well Brad!

[@thetaranator]

Love what you did with the tuppence too :) Thank you for the review! I appreciate that it wasn't.... excessively decorated :P. Also like that you made the notebooks line up properly by doing your own system of bands :).

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Tara Stewart - Thank you for watching! I'm glad you liked it. My bands aren't REALLY necessary, but I liked having more options in the way I used the inserts.

[@Luger82]

Now that was what I’ve been looking for the entire time I’ve been researching the travelers notebooks.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Dawn Brumbaugh - I think you were taking those comments a bit too seriously. They were meant in jest. Let's all try to relax a bit.

[@vivaLAhinduism]

I have seen quite a few reviews on this as I going to purchase my first one shortly. And I have to say your is the best review and best customization. So kudos to you.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

vivaLAhinduism - Thank you! I hope my review helped you make a decision.

[@vivaLAhinduism]

Stuff&Things It has. I did want to ask two question if you don't mind. 1. How exactly did you add the additional elastic bands and what tools did you use ? 2. What did you print the writing guide on ? Thanks in advance.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I just poked holes through the leather with a small awl on a multi-tool. You don't need to remove any material. The holes are spaced just like the original Midori holes, just located slightly to the left and right. then I used one long piece of elastic cord and threaded it through the holes, joining them together near the tin button on the midori. i think if you watch the review again and pay close attention to the close-ups, you should be able to see what I mean. The writing guide was just printed on some thin card stock. I should probably laminate it at some point.

[@vivaLAhinduism]

Stuff&Things Thank you very much.

[@instagamrr]

LOL @ how you know the exact length of your hand. How has no one commented on this? Well played sir 🤣

[@dianapatrick7761]

I laughed so hard when you said “bedazzled”. Yes some of these KZbin’ers can get quite ridiculous with their decorations 😂. I’ve been using mine way before it became cool and I love it! I use it for planning, journaling and to do lists. It doesn’t have to be for scrapbooking. After all….It was made for travel documentation and holding important documents. Great video! 👍🏼

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Dee Dee - I'm glad you found it helpful! The paper quality in the Midori is definitely more fountain pen friendly than the Moleskine.

[@shikinkern]

Finally I get the answers I need for this Midori Traveler's Notebook. Thank you very much for your review.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Shikin kern - It's my pleasure! I'm glad you found the review helpful.

[@brittak5803]

YAS so true. I got a budget midori and got all intimidated when I looked for some inspiration online. All these women having their picture perfect inserts and stuff, I aint got money for all that! Thank you for this fresh and uncluttered approach. - coming from a woman

[@sandramathews651]

I’ve been using this Midori system for several years now. Loved your review for us plain folk who just want a journal!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TanyerLamb]

Oh! Forgot to mention, thanks so much for providing this perspective, as I was unsure about the Midori Notebook. I adore the high-femme youtubers who have showcased and shared their awesome notebooks, just was having trouble envisioning how someone whose tastes are more masculine of centre would use this product.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Tanyer Lamb - My pleasure! As much as I was poking a little gentle fun at the scrapbook mentality, I'm actually pretty blown away by some of the creativity I've seen when looking at Midori videos. MyLifeMits is a great channel in that vein.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

FYI: I wrote you a private KZbin message a few days back. Let me know if you have a website or someplace where I can see your work!

[@bobjodee]

Great video, no distractions of bells & whistles, simple, to the point. Thanks for sharing!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks for watching! I took a look at your one and only video - let's just say that I'm extremely impressed.

[@bobjodee]

I'm flattered that you took the time to watch. Many thanks. I'm quite efficient in other social media with my art but new to KZbin. More videos to come, hopefully. I'll have to take a peek at your other vids!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'm looking forward to seeing more of your work!

[@Nono-hk3is]

This makes me miss my Huey Lewis & the News Trapper Keeper

[@lachimiste1]

Hah! My first thought when I discovered Traveler's Notebooks was that they are fancy leather Trapper Keepers for grown-ups.

[@meutod2]

No no ohhhmyyyygooosh!!!childhood school memories just came rushing back!

[@destinyvarney7561]

I'm so glad to find someone that doesn't really want to make everything pink and sparkly.. you wouldn't believe how many videos I've cringed through to get to this one.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Destiny Varney - Well, I'm glad that you found my review eventually!

[@xcherryjonesx]

I have a question, in your craft folder you have a writing mat that you cut down to size. To you remember where you purchased that and what tools you used to cut it?

[@lizbotnick]

A good video for those with a more classical/minimalist interest journaling. I vary on preference between "ink only" and "I want color and patterns and layout" depending on what I'm doing with an insert. It's nice having a notebook that can be everything I want while having that everything be tidily separated. The DIY aspect it also great, I ended up making several for myself, and utilizing them to their fullest has me learning new skills and calling back on older ones like bookbinding.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Nice! Sounds like you've delved in pretty deeply. Thanks for watching!

[@ldalfkjahsl]

I've got a question as to why you set up your new elastics like you did. I really like the idea of having more elastics rather than the rubber bands, but it seems that you could have saved some bulk to the midori by using only one piece of elastic. Instead of threading them the same way the original midori elastic is threaded, did you consider just using the two holes you punched most closely to the ends of the notebook and threading a single elastic band on the outside of the leather horizontally at the ends so that it would be longways in the inside and you wouldn't have the shorter length of elastic that never gets used. I'm not sure if that's clear or not, drawing a picture would be simpler. Anyway I was just wondering if you considered this and/or if you thought it would work that way. My midori is on the way and I'm trying to figure out a good system similar to yours to easily swap notebooks.

[@corgi-Welshman]

Thanks Bradley. This is the best review I've seen on the "Midori travellers Notebook", I didn't get bored and was so glad you didn't do any funny hand waving and passed on the nail varnish,haha !

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Thanks for watching!

[@ilonabell7095]

'This is pretty thick, it's not anywhere near as thick as some of the women I've seen out there' - cracked me up :P

[@beelzebabe5112]

I absolutely took this as a warning and I’m so glad because I would have been ROLLING in the middle of the airport! 😂😂😂