Print on Demand Journals: My Experience with Custom Notebooks

When I first thought about selling stationery, I had no idea where to start. I didn’t have the space for boxes of stock, or the time to manage shipping. That’s when I discovered print on demand journals – and honestly, it changed everything.

With Papello, I could design a product, create mockups for free, and start selling – all without holding a single notebook in my hands. Every order gets printed in the UK and shipped in eco-friendly packaging, just like I would do myself.

Here’s what I’ve learned (and loved) about selling journals online.

Why I Chose to Sell Print-on-Demand Journals

Custom journals are consistently in demand – whether for gifts, journaling, or branding. I noticed Etsy was full of successful stationery sellers, and most of them were using POD. It made perfect sense:

• I didn’t have to bulk order anything
• I could test designs with zero risk
• Orders shipped automatically, even while I slept

My Go-To Products: Softcover and Spiral Journals

A5 Softcover Notebooks

These were my first product – lightweight and gift-friendly. I uploaded a few simple quote designs and was shocked at how well they sold.

• 80 pages (lined)
• Full wraparound colour cover
• Plastic-free packaging

➡️ Check out the A5 Notebooks

A5 Spiral Notebooks

Once I had my designs dialled in, I added spiral notebooks to the mix. They feel more premium and the glue binding really suits more functional, everyday journals.

• 160 pages (lined, plain, graph or bullet)
• Custom front + back cover
• Made sustainably in the UK

➡️ See the Spiral Notebooks

How I Designed My First Notebook (Step-by-Step)

I’ll be honest – I’m not a designer. But here’s exactly how I made my first journal using Papello’s online editor:

1. Pick your product: I started with the A5 softcover.
   
   
    
2. Choose your template: Papello provides a downloadable guide you can use in Photoshop, Illustrator or Canvas. Or you can design it "on the fly" in the product editor.
   
   
3. In this example, I'll use the product editor to upload an existing image but add text over the top. Selecting “Buy for yourself” gets you into the editor.
   
   
    
4. Upload and adjust: I uploaded the image into Papello’s editor and used the built-in tools to position it, adding the required text over the top.
   
   We need to ensure that the canvas is completely filled (allowing for bleed) and that we centre logos and text. 
   
   Important note: If you are centring logos or text, remember that the hinge area will be part of the front and back,, so take that into consideration. 
   
   
    
5. Add some text: Next, I'm going to add some personalisation by adding text to the cover directly in the editor. 
   
   
   
   Finally, let's add that to the basket and checkout.
   
   👉 You don’t need Photoshop or InDesign. I used Canva and got a professional result. Just remember to use the templates, or export your image in the right dimensions for the product. 

Pro tip: Start with something bold, simple, and fun. I used a mix of hand lettering and abstract shapes to catch the eye.

Two few days later...My notebook arrived!

Why I Chose Papello (And Still Do)

I love that I can start small and grow naturally without the stress of fulfilment. The white label options also help keep my brand front and centre.

Ready to Make Your First Journal?

Print on demand changed how I run my business. No inventory, no waste, and everything handled for me – just the way I like it.

🎨 Design your first softcover notebook

🔁 Or try spiral notebooks here

I'll handle the ideas. Papello handles the rest.