Hobonichi Cover Letter (A5)
The Hobonichi Cover Letter in A5 format is a tri-fold cover for the Techo Cousin, designed to resemble a folded envelope in construction. The outer shell combines smoky grey polyurethane with an acrylic fabric made in Spain – two surfaces with distinctly different tactile qualities: one smooth and closed, the other soft and woven. The ball stud and cord ends are made from genuine cowhide.
Features
- Tri-fold construction: The cover folds three times like a letter envelope, with a distinctive triangular flap that closes the front section.
- Cowhide ball stud closure: A cord with leather ends is wrapped around the stud – a mechanical closure without magnet or clip that encourages slow, deliberate opening and closing.
- PU and acrylic fabric combination: The smoky grey polyurethane forms the outer surface, the Spanish acrylic fabric the textured section – both materials feel fundamentally different to the touch.
- Leather details: Stud and cord ends made from genuine cowhide; these parts develop a slightly matte patina with use.
- Interior pen holder: Secured via clip – suitable for pens with a sturdy clip that grips through the loop.
- Hand-crafted construction: Each cover is hand-stitched and assembled in Japan; minor dimensional variations between individual examples are a result of the handmade process.
Use & Tips
- Compatible with the Hobonichi Techo Cousin in A5 format (yearly planner, weekly, original book). Not compatible with A6 sizes.
- The pen holder grips via the clip – pens with narrow or short clips may sit loosely. Fountain pens and fineliner pens with sturdy metal clips, or ballpoints with broad clips, work well.
- The ball stud closure keeps the cover securely shut when the book is carried in a bag – preventing pages from opening or bookmarks from slipping.
- The acrylic fabric is sensitive to prolonged moisture and heat; storage in a cool, dry environment will extend the colour-fastness of the fabric.
- The cowhide part of the stud becomes softer over time and adapts through use – regular opening and closing preserves the flexibility of the cord.
For Techo Enthusiasts
The cover's acrylic fabric is manufactured in Spain – an indication that Hobonichi deliberately incorporates European textile production for this model, which is unusual for Japanese stationery brands. In practical terms, the tri-fold format means the closed cover sits in three layers; the total thickness in the folded state is approximately 3 mm according to manufacturer specifications. Since each example is hand-stitched in Japan, seam run and fabric pattern alignment may vary slightly – a hallmark of handcrafted production that makes each cover a unique piece.
Technical Specifications
| Model / Series: | Cover Letter – A5 Cousin Size |
| Colour / Finish: | Smoky grey; PU smooth surface + woven acrylic fabric |
| Dimensions (tri-fold, folded): | Approx. 230 × 440 × 3 mm |
| Material – Outer shell: | Polyurethane (PU), acrylic fabric (manufactured in Spain) |
| Material – Closure details: | Cowhide (stud and cord ends), polyester |
| Closure: | Ball stud with leather-ended cord, triangular flap |
| Pen holder: | Interior, secured via clip |
| Compatibility: | Hobonichi Techo Cousin (A5) |
| Origin: | Japan (hand-crafted) |
| Included: | Cover without book |
