The Idea
My Grandfather often uses scratch pieces of paper to take notes, or write reminders. Often these scratch papers would be stapled together and left out where they were often ruined by small hands, water, or some other disaster. So I decided to make something that would keep this from happening. I wanted a place where he could find his notes and where they would be safe. So I took inspiration from other, similar folders and created my own.
The Three Ring Problem
Because a lot of the paper that my grandfather uses is scratch printer paper, a regular three ring approach just wasn’t practical. So I found an alternative. There are folders with a lift tab system that uses compression and friction to hold the papers in, no holes required.
This piece of hardware already reduced the bulk of the folder, and the need for a hole punch. It is also easier to use than other three ring alternatives that I have seen on the internet and does not require any additional tools to operate.
Professional Look, Personal Touch
This folder has the advantage of a professional look, but it still gives me a very large canvas to add personal touches without distracting from the overall appeal. It offers a convenient place to store paper of all kinds and gives the user something to help them stand out among the crowd.
The Pattern Evolving
As I make more of these, the pattern continues to evolve and change. The inside pocket has gotten smaller to make putting paper inside easier. I replaced the leather inside lining with a cloth one to cut down on material cost, bulk, and to make it easier to stitch. I have plans to make other iterations with pockets that will store a legal pad and I have started including pen holders on the side to allow you to easily carry all of your note-taking needs with you.