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Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about paper, pens and how I Want Stationery works. Follow the links for the full story.
Do you sell stationery directly?
No. I Want Stationery is a shop window and guide. We don't hold stock or take payment. Our "Shop now" buttons open a retailer's range in a new tab, and any order, delivery or return is handled by that retailer.
Do you earn money from the links?
Some of our shop links are, or may become, affiliate links. If you buy through one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It doesn't affect what we write, and it's why every outbound link is marked as sponsored. See the disclosure in the footer.
Why don't you show prices or star ratings?
Stationery prices change constantly, and we don't want to publish ratings for products we haven't tested ourselves. Instead we explain what to look for, so you can judge any notebook or pen you come across.
What size notebook should I buy?
A5 suits most people for notes, journals and planning. A4 is better for lectures and big handwriting, and A6 fits a pocket. See notebooks & journals.
What gsm paper is best for fountain pens?
Around 90–120gsm usually reduces show-through, but smoothness and coating matter as much as weight. Our paper weights guide explains why.
What is dot grid paper?
Pages printed with a faint grid of dots, usually 5mm apart. They guide writing and drawing without the rigidity of lines, which is why dot grid is popular for bullet journals.
Which fountain pen nib should a beginner choose?
A fine (F) or medium (M) steel nib is a safe start. If you write small or are left-handed, try fine or extra fine. More in our fountain pen guide.
What's the difference between a lever arch file and a ring binder?
Lever arch files hold much more paper and are designed for archiving on a shelf. Ring binders are slimmer and better for notes you use often. See filing & organisation.
When should I buy an academic diary?
Academic or mid-year diaries usually run from July, August or September. They tend to appear in shops over the summer, so browse in June or July for the widest choice.
What envelope fits an A4 letter folded in three?
A DL envelope (110 × 220mm). A C5 fits A4 folded once, and a C4 takes A4 flat. Full table on cards & envelopes.
When do UK schools go back?
Schools in England and Wales usually return in early September, Northern Ireland in late August or early September, and Scotland in mid-August. Dates vary by school and area. See our back-to-school checklist.
Can I suggest a category or guide?
Please do. Use our contact form and tell us what you'd like to see.
Something we haven't covered? Send us your question.