13 Creative Small Notebook Ideas
If you’ve landed on this blog, it’s safe to say you have a bit of a stationery addiction (don’t worry, we’re all friends here).
Maybe you’ve amassed a colorful collection of small notebooks because they’re just too adorable to pass up. I mean, who can resist them?
The problem, of course, is figuring out what to actually do with them. They sit there, looking cute yet unused, and it’s time to change that.
Good news! You’re in the right spot because we’re about to explore some clever, fun, and practical ways to finally put those tiny treasures to good use.
Do you have a collection of small notebooks gathering dust somewhere in your home? It’s time to put them to use!
With so many different purposes for these tiny books, the possibilities are endless.
From journaling and sketching to tracking expenses or taking notes in class, small notebooks can be used extensively across all areas of life.
Let’s explore some creative ways that you can make the most out of these useful items and maximize your small notebook collection.
And be sure to check the end of the post for more ideas!
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What To Do With Small Notebooks: 13 Creative Ideas
Cute and functional, they can be used in many ways.
Here, I came up with 13 ideas, but I’m sure that if you think of your own life and how you usually use your journal, you’ll be able to think of many more ways.
Let’s dive in.
On The Go Journal
Having a notebook that is compact and easy to carry can be incredibly helpful when inspiration or ideas strike. With a small notebook at hand, you’ll have an easy way to jot down notes or reminders, so nothing falls through the cracks.
Taking Notes
Think of your small notebook as the ultimate brain dump station. Use it to jot down all those fleeting ideas, random reminders, and notes you’d usually scribble on post-it notes or scraps of paper.
Instead of cluttering your space or losing important thoughts, they’ll all stay in one handy, portable place. Bonus? It’s way more organized, and flipping through it later can spark new inspiration.
Plus, there’s something ridiculously satisfying about filling up those tiny pages with your thoughts. Your little notebook won’t just look cute anymore; it’ll become your go-to tool for keeping it all together.
Memory Keeping
Creating a memory-keeping habit can be challenging, but it’s easier if you’re using a smaller journal. Start by writing in the journal for just a few minutes each day, at the same time every day.
Or you can fill it with photos and mementos that remind you of important moments throughout your life.
Sketchbook
A small journal makes for a perfect pocket-sized sketchbook, ideal for sharpening your creative skills and crafting stunning works of art.
Its compact size isn’t just adorable; it’s practical too. You can toss it into any bag or even carry it in your pocket, so you’re always ready when inspiration hits.
Whether you’re sketching a quick doodle at a café, capturing the outline of a breathtaking landscape, or experimenting with new techniques, the portability of a small journal ensures no idea goes unrecorded. Plus, filling those little pages over time becomes its own rewarding masterpiece to look back on.
Gratitude Journal
A small journal is perfect for starting a gratitude practice. Each entry can be as long or as short as you like – maybe a few sentences or a full-page entry; thankfully, the pages are smaller, so it’s perfect for starting with this habit.
Doing this will help you cultivate an attitude of thankfulness and positivity which can have long-term benefits for both your physical and mental well-being.
Dream Journal
Using a small journal as a dream journal is an excellent way to document the dreams you have experienced each night.
It’s a cute thing to keep on your nightstand, so you can write about your dreams just when you woke up, and memories are still fresh.
Travel Journal
A travel journal is a great way to capture memories of your journey and help keep track of where you’ve been and what you’ve seen. A small notebook is perfect for that since it’s easy and light to carry with you.
Inspiration Journal
An inspiration journal is an amazing way to capture those lightbulb moments—ideas, observations, or thoughts that spark creativity or motivation.
A small notebook is perfect for this, as its compact size means you can carry it everywhere. Whether it’s a clever idea that strikes during your morning coffee, an inspiring quote overheard in conversation, or something beautiful you notice on a walk, you’ll always have a place to jot it down.
Keeping these snippets together adds up to a treasure trove of inspiration, and flipping through it later can reignite your creativity or even give new meaning to old ideas.
Things My Kids Say
Documenting the funny, sweet, or downright surprising things our kids say is such a heartwarming way to capture their personality and growth over time.
A small journal is perfect for this because it’s easy to keep nearby, whether it’s in your bag, on the coffee table, or even by your bedside for those unexpected gems that come out during bedtime chats.
Jotting down their words not only preserves precious memories but can also become a cherished keepsake to look back on years down the road. Imagine sharing these moments with them as they grow up – it’s a special way to relive those fleeting, magical stages of childhood.
Swatch Journal
Use your small notebook for swatching your pen collection or maybe washi tapes. By keeping track of all these different types of colors and stationery in one place, it’ll be easier to refer back when needed in future projects!
I have a few ideas on how you can create them in your notebooks, so be sure to check the end of the post for more details.
DnD Campaign Journal
This is a little bit more niche, but that’s one of my personal favorite ways to use my tiny journals.
Keeping track of your Dungeon & Dragons campaign is essential if you want to maintain continuity between game sessions and stay organized throughout the entire game. Small notebooks are perfect for that because they provide enough space for all the notes but don’t occupy too much space on your game table.
Reading Journal
A tiny notebook is a great way to dip your toes into keeping a reading journal without feeling overwhelmed. Its small size is just enough space to jot down the books you’ve read, key points from the stories, and your thoughts about them.
Plus, because it’s so compact, you can easily carry it with you, letting you write down your impressions the moment inspiration strikes.
Whether you’re tracking your favorite quotes, noting themes that stood out, or just recording the emotions a book evoked, this little journal becomes a personalized snapshot of your reading adventures that you can treasure over time.
Food Journal
If you’re working toward a healthier lifestyle, a small notebook can become your best ally on the journey. Its compact size makes it easy to keep with you, so you can track your goals anytime, anywhere.
Use it to log what you eat, take note of cravings, and record details about your workouts. Having everything in one place helps you notice patterns, celebrate progress, and stay accountable.
Plus, jotting things down by hand can make your goals feel more tangible and personal. Over time, this little notebook becomes more than just a tracker; it’s a reminder of how far you’ve come and a motivator to keep going!
There you go. Here are 13 ideas for you to start putting your journal to good use.
Hopefully, you loved these ideas and are ready to start using your small notebooks.
More Resources
There are, of course, so many more ideas and ways you can use your journals and planners. If you want more or to know more about any of these ideas, I’ve got you covered.
Check out these posts next:
- 31+ Fun And Creative Blank Journal Ideas
- Creative Pen Swatch Bullet Journal Pages
- 19 Health And Fitness Bullet Journal Ideas
>>> Which one of these ideas are you going to try? Share with us in the comments.
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And remember: Keep Bullet Journaling, and Don’t Be A Blob!
