Designing the Notepad
The reusable Grovemade notepad is an essential piece of our desk collection—but it took a happy coincidence between researching notebook sizes and dissatisfaction with disposable notepads to bring it to life.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=5fe1df8d53ed0f038abde64c3aaa6120 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=3635230e3d29632f98f139123787c52c 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=b51ba027dfd8521bc53a0a986e31c2af 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5b29272e09fa2615ef9261a74ed11146 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=3b729820add3c43051170d278cd53e28 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=37ae3f251abd58d2888d8b35c48b7466 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=b32fd0fce750ed4a25933def2232150f 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=73811efc0c7266ca0b3b8d0a92ec507c 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=8e83f00e976b45a8416e222eb01cb508 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=da86f2d320f49c49c1f679e7807a07bb 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=a848c3c936d4cee9dfe3d65889b49e99 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=2a84451a29ffa2bd9e32190641af97b8 3000w)
The Buildup
Rewind a couple years—we were researching new notebook sizes for our collection, and Ken happened to be using a disposable notebook at his desk. It was beautiful to start, but with each tear of the page, a wall of unsightly glue residue was slowly building.
The combination was a lightbulb moment: we should design a notepad. We dove into the research.
We learned that almost all the notepads out there are disposable. There are two basic binding types: ring-bound and glue-bound. Neither option is ideal: they either leave the note-taker with tattered edges or an ever-increasing glue wall. Not clean. And, there seems to be a limited, standard range of sizes.
We were starting to sense a sweet spot: a gap in the market where we could create a notepad that would last forever, that was minimal and clean, and that was designed just right for your desk. Excitement was building.
The combination was a lightbulb moment: we should design a notepad. We dove into the research.
We learned that almost all the notepads out there are disposable. There are two basic binding types: ring-bound and glue-bound. Neither option is ideal: they either leave the note-taker with tattered edges or an ever-increasing glue wall. Not clean. And, there seems to be a limited, standard range of sizes.
We were starting to sense a sweet spot: a gap in the market where we could create a notepad that would last forever, that was minimal and clean, and that was designed just right for your desk. Excitement was building.
Risk Analysis
It was time to make a key decision: do we move forward with designing a product that’s totally new to the market? Maybe there was a reason there were only disposable notepads out there. Maybe that was all people were willing to buy.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=8161a7782440835b56dc1fc7af139853 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=b91b2173ac12b0e6984b9913c208863f 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=f28b5fa2e71bc891f2b48cc4583dabc7 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5b2858382d5b2010fa39651b405910f8 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=522adb642cfe2a4278e222543651df60 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=29b0d01b310876823ad0192c14afc633 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=12a50b579a45068ba02afc02f7354b25 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=01498ddc9b9460a39579a26de390e21d 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=096cc4df96b14ecec3d29be06b5a6fae 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=20535d12eaf6ab6c139483a185fdeaf7 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=395cfea2be753b996a297da6dfaf1cf2 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=08ed6543f605572b1d6a3dd5fcdad124 3000w)
It’s exciting and scary to design something not already in the market. We knew it might fail, and we were okay with it.
KEN TOMITA
Co-Founder
We stepped back and took stock. This helped us realize that we really wanted to see this product come to life. We felt like it filled a need for our desk space—maybe other people would too. It would be a risk, but we were willing to take it.
Inspiration Takes the Wheel
We laid out our goals.
1. Make something permanent and lasting.
2. Find a way to secure paper without having to rip it, and without its being loose.
3. Make it solid, and easy to use with one hand.
1. Make something permanent and lasting.
2. Find a way to secure paper without having to rip it, and without its being loose.
3. Make it solid, and easy to use with one hand.
Our first inspiration came from a surprise source:
The “Do Not Disturb” tag on hotel room doors.
Slide it on, slide it off.
The “Do Not Disturb” tag on hotel room doors.
Slide it on, slide it off.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=cfd3e4d8abc724d53b9c73aa02230872 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=b9168b8ccf3097eb5af7b03678f87496 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=b306745e1ba63fb2492bff9858a30953 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=753dfa5becf15410fb0de898e5e86fc1 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=ea05fbc0e93532a9b66da5ebf60d9844 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=df6a4dfec4fc40fb885578128657c075 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=f312ae9862ce750396216773cbb2a325 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=f93acf0710104d35bc8a2cef985ce137 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=b98242360d195ba87dc4b99a6698d9c0 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=a88426c4ed8c343ad73a2c8cc13d1376 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=1bda76015b57732fc317c63433c5d373 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-B3.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=8d6e8bc81b1622678dc0abc5010f1176 3000w)
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=d8e2be19b0318c0774ef2ee8bad8288c 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=76782abc7af07e541245e432dc9b88e0 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=97b2422e5cc5fba4ec73b330349bb9a7 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=96dd5d1c344bfb977d4be637ca054e96 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=53a963c654c81d491f8f569b08fe4f28 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=5643ec9222408f1912c328b98bea4537 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=134be892812b932b5a678c60bb3afab5 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=20a05ddc802695fded168f5a1a1ccad4 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=0da29e661c6144dffa7b2f57a19b30cf 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=aa4c76ec77b3ea9290e0f43cf6e65790 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=c3f970f4a25e8011b8d3e2d6d169c13c 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-leather-belt-tan-silver-galb-D1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=fbb615a85d411f2d99a30248fb7bc5c3 3000w)
We could use this same rhythm for the notepad paper. Slide it on, slide it off. Slip it in, slip it out.
This would be easy to refill when your paper ran out. As an added bonus, you could flip a page over when you were done with one side and use the other! Sean was really into this feature. Ken thought it was alright but not a big deal… stay tuned for the ending to that story.
As for the size, we were leaning toward long and narrow, a size we hadn’t seen much of in our research. We took some inspiration from our slim notebook proportions, and looked for a silhouette that would fit easily next to our keyboards.
This would be easy to refill when your paper ran out. As an added bonus, you could flip a page over when you were done with one side and use the other! Sean was really into this feature. Ken thought it was alright but not a big deal… stay tuned for the ending to that story.
As for the size, we were leaning toward long and narrow, a size we hadn’t seen much of in our research. We took some inspiration from our slim notebook proportions, and looked for a silhouette that would fit easily next to our keyboards.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=490aac1689ea71df58a55cee098bcdf0 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=79a6d6083ec9e0fc1cb6751de7aae464 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=d82334f22ed32dd3cc0a1e2332ddbfbc 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=f9f68a118110d535b6defde3afd9887b 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=a9b36dd166a6e4af3317350c76030857 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=22e7ff06afd6638f362e6d71b6ffc5e4 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=3ff9bb6434b3e1fe1bd7651642d693fb 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=b7286be8e31a360db85b5ce946344623 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=68cbed43d54d0d68d92929be3f29438e 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=9ae4499b266548535a3d81039e5b431b 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=8f3c9ba26ec4f955bb5bb65f74aa66cd 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=13ba0db5b6e1f802083a1918b2e3b5f2 3000w)
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Our threads were coming together. We were designing a stable base that wouldn’t budge when you pulled off a sheet of paper, anchoring the paper on a stud that facilitated easy on and off, double-sided note taking, and beautiful notepad aging. The base would fit in with a clean, minimal desk setup, whether it was full of paper or totally empty.
Considerations and Hiccups
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=8ac02450dc38772bbacd9f9263d831bf 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=840a46c392fe7b2867c1903b88f33936 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=c35af668d281550d403abe60261fa652 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=39b8d21b0c5505f5d2b6f5a96c2dd007 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=f0c02b9b20b5c23afd74ac5061549880 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=3065bac13da39f7cb9c30acf2a796dc7 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=93695ea0578dfe1e6a60be97403992c0 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=f862924f84e269ee118705d6fdae33b8 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=b152e6c75584a442f5705cb30f0215b8 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=3ec101792852214b69ea6d25cce3b894 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=c2da0391c573b06029825e9ed9a21b62 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=938111faf8141870eb39feb068f4a733 3000w)
But then, a hiccup: the first time we ordered the paper, we received a staggered stack. The hole wasn’t lined up all the way through, and it was impossible to set the paper over the stud in a single, fluid movement. We couldn’t let that fly, so we went back to our supplier. If we lined up the hole, we’d end up with some unevenness and tabs on the paper’s edge. It was a tradeoff, but we went for it. That motion of refilling the paper, of taking a page off or putting it on, had to be absolutely seamless.
The Finish Line … For Now
Once we had the paper situation squared away, we were looking at a nearly completed product. A solid, machined metal base with chamfered edges, and a single pill-shaped, press-fit stud at the top.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=8161a7782440835b56dc1fc7af139853 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=b91b2173ac12b0e6984b9913c208863f 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=f28b5fa2e71bc891f2b48cc4583dabc7 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5b2858382d5b2010fa39651b405910f8 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=522adb642cfe2a4278e222543651df60 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=29b0d01b310876823ad0192c14afc633 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=12a50b579a45068ba02afc02f7354b25 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=01498ddc9b9460a39579a26de390e21d 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=096cc4df96b14ecec3d29be06b5a6fae 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=20535d12eaf6ab6c139483a185fdeaf7 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=395cfea2be753b996a297da6dfaf1cf2 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fken-A1.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=08ed6543f605572b1d6a3dd5fcdad124 3000w)
We chose a super specific niche and aimed for 10x better. We think we got there.
KEN TOMITA
Co-Founder
We chose dot grid paper, so you can use the notepad in any orientation. To create a flow between the stud and the dot grid, we added margins so that the grid doesn’t extend past the stud and doesn’t crowd it. Instead it follows the line of the stud down the page, giving a feel of continuity and unity.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=4133ab378666ea4f0448ae4af403bb85 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=f8e73a2f71eebe9873355e7136367c18 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=b1c1f4ba1697f9e379c53c43d98df455 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=d3d9c5207a504b7733efc6df84dd72c6 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=9da40bda9b2229d7d308d22438359afd 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=077c56c5048a1d93270510114181bd3d 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=383d6129e98f268e55de9c645dca2096 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=7a7d6e70245f3030e06a1ec323be7eeb 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=851e414cf1144c663350dcf8ee95559d 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=e5957373f300895d400076504414785e 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=c24cc8cfbe8f2810e75ebe6e3c3e163c 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-black-galB-A1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=8344924c054741ab6ca1b1b87bcd463e 3000w)
Our notepad is long and narrow. A rare breed, and all the better for it. Lovely for lists, perfect for ponderings.
The paper is also thick enough to use both sides, and is lined up along the hole so it’s effortless to take on and off. This, plus the heaviness of the base, means that you can single handedly pull a sheet off, turn it over, and doodle/scratch/jot on it to your heart’s content.
![](https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 200w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 300w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 700w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 900w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 1100w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 1300w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 1500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 1800w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 2250w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 2500w,https://siteleaf.grovemade.com/uploads/grovemade-notepad-brass-galB-D1.gif 3000w)
Sean: But we are experts at making the base.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=231e312b2a575a1b4d04d8c7b9437bcd 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=aec5123b8f8b52bbf33ce930362e424e 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=33104f05f78877d72a9192d5b407473e 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=5de7de3e5a773b527fe1224aa4c3544c 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=72c54d66ce27a5c575729b31419cf99f 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=0a098969be5f5e01f43af3a3f101c07b 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=01e36f1992f354e389cad1e09b24d1f3 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=e98713bc79707724b7a372f8c4c242d2 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=067ab336ce5b242ff7329f4383c579b4 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=c81970601625ed55e2fd843197ccbd0d 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=a6464aaf6f84e39bea36a833df1acb3c 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2FGMP0243-notepad-design-C2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=af027eb8a2230c542882bcc130da20a1 3000w)
In the end, we’d designed one of our favorite products. We use it daily and can’t go back to anything else. We went for a highly specific use and we’re loving it. As for double-sidedness, Ken is now totally on board and gets the beauty of it. In Sean’s words:
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=44be4df449b9e222bcf444376355aca7 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=1aa7f233707327de750efb3acdc81e54 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=2ab40399ad5e05ac60aa59613dc7df1d 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=fce466501e506cc99367b1c06f740a25 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=0a83d6cce681c9c554eabfd7b6c54425 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=3b79a17a1dca558d812d72a79fe6af6a 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=1998f08efba41a4e67d7dc65f3585049 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=5112896fc4da043a87bb843b761c18b6 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=1118c57f8fa2a7ce35a4aec48ed58ae8 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=4a56a298eb6d867a516f4f2b61970ee7 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=f175f87f2c0f79c1ccb14f90aae0b8c4 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A4.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=b44a3179bd50099fb783080001d6031c 3000w)
Our notepad does one thing really well… AND you can use both sides!
SEAN KELLY
Lead Product Designer
What more could you want?
[More sizes? We think so too. Keep an eye out for new sizes coming soon!]
[More sizes? We think so too. Keep an eye out for new sizes coming soon!]
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=d7d8c008ad6a4db46619b94f3b09ce77 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=0a0264bb78b3d202c56427108ce6c8e5 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=fe31945200ce8a49bb57bfd77c1957fd 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=537244d4548f021f468354c83ef308be 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=2e8e9c221bb27dc8bdc9a4e318de9505 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=09d2cd75c1f47d73bf2b4570c2adf836 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=00e9f498dd533db27d0e09ee10547d94 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=f854617b9c3e2d2595ef9f557bc88f00 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=6e2842eb48ce67aa6fc202e76d536dc5 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=fe31063e278b542e80a2675255015ec0 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=f2f9574ea3b30ac6fb52b5a05dabf723 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-notepad-brass-galB-B2.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=881f092509e1b69961346cc9d1f736cb 3000w)
Pick Your Partner
Our notepads are available in black, brass and silver. Pair with a pen for the ultimate workspace duo.