If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen it: handcrafted leather journal covers filling your feed. From minimalist travel journals to richly textured heirloom notebooks, DIY leather journaling has become one of the fastest-growing craft trends on social media.
Leather Journals å la Louise Carmen Paris
Often referenced on TikTok and Instagram as the inspiration for the leather-bound journals trend is designer Louise Carmen. Based in the heart of Paris, Louise Carmen crafts elegant, refillable leather notebooks that marry luxury with everyday functionality—products frequently credited by social media creators for setting the aesthetic benchmark in leather journals that many credit for starting the trend of DIY leather journal making.
Why Leather Journal Covers Are Trending Right Now
Short-form videos showcase everything from cutting and edge finishing to hand-stitching and burnishing, inspiring thousands of first-time leathercrafters to try their hand at working with real leather.
What’s driving the trend? A mix of slow-living aesthetics, analog creativity, and the satisfaction of making something that will last for years. And at the center of every great leather journal cover is one critical choice: the leather itself.
The Go-To Source for Leathercrafters of All Skill Levels
Whether you’re a professional leatherworker, a weekend leathercrafter, or someone making their very first journal cover, the Leather Skins Journals and Bookbinding Leather collection offers one of the best curated selections of premium leather available online. With trusted Italian tanneries, consistent thicknesses ideal for journal covers, and color options that work across a wide range of styles, LeatherSkins makes it easy to find the right leather for your project—without overbuying or compromising on quality.
Below are our favorite leathers for DIY journal covers, chosen for their workability, durability, and visual appeal.
Most Popular Leathers for DIY Journal Covers
Conceria 800 Toscano Liscio Leather, 4 oz – 11 Colors
Smooth, refined, and incredibly versatile, Toscano Liscio is a top choice for journal covers that lean clean and classic. This vegetable-tanned leather has a flat, polished surface that takes stamping, embossing, and edge finishing beautifully. At 4 oz, it provides structure without being bulky, making it ideal for wrap-style or refillable journals.
Best for: Minimalist designs, hot stamping, and professional finishes
Shop Conceria 800 Toscano Liscio Leather here
Graffiti Veg Tan Leather by MPG Conceria, 3–4 oz | 5 Colors
For makers looking to add personality and texture, Graffiti Veg Tan offers a unique surface character that stands out immediately. Its slightly lighter weight makes it easy to fold and stitch, while still holding its shape well. This leather develops character quickly, making each journal cover feel personal and lived-in.
Best for: Artistic journals, casual styles, and creative builds
Shop MPG Conceria Graffiti Veg Tan Leather here
Conceria 800 Toscano Volanato Milled Italian Veg Tan, 4–5 oz | 5 Colors
Toscano Volanato veg tan leather by Conceria 800 is milled for softness, giving it a pebbled grain and a more relaxed feel compared to smooth veg tan. This makes it an excellent option for journal covers that are meant to feel supple and comfortable in the hand while still maintaining durability. The added thickness provides a premium, substantial feel.
Best for: Soft-touch journals and everyday carry notebooks
Shop Voltanato Milled Italian Veg Tan Leather here
Conceria 800 Viceversa Laminato, 4–5 oz | 3 Colors
If your journal cover is meant to make a statement, Viceversa Laminato delivers. This leather features a metallic laminated finish that adds visual impact without sacrificing structure. Despite its bold look, it remains easy to cut and stitch, making it approachable even for intermediate crafters.
Best for: Statement pieces, modern aesthetics, and gift projects
Shop Viceversa Laminato Leather here
Artigiano Del Cuoio (ADC) Old Fashion Leather, 4 oz – 9 Colors
ADC Old Fashion Leather lives up to its name with a vintage appearance that feels timeless. The surface has subtle variation and depth, giving journal covers an aged, heritage look from day one. It works well with hand stitching and develops a rich patina over time.
Best for: Rustic journals, vintage designs, and traditional craftsmanship
Shop ADC Old Fashion Leather here
Conceria Walpier Buttero Leather, 3 oz – 6 Colors
Buttero leather by Conceria Walpier is one of the most popular leathers in the world, making it a modern classic among leathercrafters, known for its tight grain and vibrant color saturation. The 3 oz weight is thinner than most journal leathers, making it perfect for sleek, modern covers or layered constructions. Buttero leather is a must-have leather that comes in a variety of vibrant colors. It burnishes cleanly and ages beautifully with use.
Best for: Slim journal covers and refined, modern designs
Shop Walpier Buttero Leather here
Conceria 800 Lebron Leather, 5 oz – 3 Colors
For those who want a more substantial, rugged journal cover, Conceria 800 Lebron Italian veg tan leather offers extra thickness and presence. At 5 oz, it’s ideal for structured covers that protect thicker notebooks or planners. The leather has a strong character and holds its form exceptionally well.
Best for: Heavy-duty journals and long-term use
Shop Conceria 800 Lebron Italian Veg Tan here
Start Your Next DIY Leather Project with Confidence
The surge in DIY leather journal covers isn’t slowing down—and for good reason. They’re functional, personal, and deeply satisfying to make. Shop our Bookbinding and Journals Leather collection to explore premium options from trusted tanneries and sizes perfect for small projects, LeatherSkins.com makes it easy to turn inspiration from social media into a finished piece you’ll be proud to use every day.
No matter your experience level, the right leather makes all the difference. Explore these favorites and find the perfect foundation for your next journal cover.
