I know many of you will be disappointed that our planners won't be made in Sanzen 68 gsm after all. But I hope after watching our video testing the paper that you understand our decision. We will making our planners in Sanzen 52 gsm as a result of these findings. However, we are looking at offering a 2nd paper option (we'll know this week) and if we can make that happen there will be two paper options to satisfy the needs of our customers. We will be sharing this update on Instagram and also the website. If you've already preordered you'll receive an email this week updating you as well.
I agree with you! That feathering on the 68 gsm will bug me and I wouldn’t use the planner. I did pre-order so very happy you made this video and thank you for making sure we get a quality product!
I think you made a good call, please pass on these results to the paper company- I’m much happier to have good performing 52 gsm than that performance of 68
The fact that you actually tested this and then put up the comparison video for us to see and understand why you came to that decision is AMAZING. Thank you for the transparency. Many times, the consumer would've had no idea and would've blindly paid for something and not known that the quality wouldn't be what they expected. Plus, the LAYOUT is what I am paying for. Coming from other planner companies who don't even take paper quality into account, this is great. Thank you for your honesty. My order will still be placed. :)
Thank you so much! Ensuring we create a quality, functional planner is at the top of our priorities. I'm glad you are loving the layout - we love it too!
I’m sorry you’re disappointed but it was truly the most thorough demonstration of the various papers I’ve ever seen. I’m so surprised at how the new 68gsm performed with different mediums, but I’m also very grateful that you tested it so thoroughly. Thank you for your tireless effort in creating the best product possible! I’m excited to see where this journey takes you 🥰
Not to worry. This will be my first printed planner in over 20 years and 52gsm is fine with me. I don't mind the ghosting. I tend to lean into a vintage aesthetic and ghosting plays nicely with that. Thanks for being so upfront about the challenges this adventure has presented you with. (FYI - I saw the horizontal layout video because of a random algorithm recommendation and was wowed - this is so close to what I've wanted. I've been mentally plotting how I'm going to use it for days and, frankly, looking forward to not having to draw all my layouts.)
Oh thank you so very much for your kind words and supporting our new venture! I agree - 52 gsm is awesome! and I'm just excited to be able to have these planners I've envisioned. So glad the algorithm brought you here!
First: Excellent video. Second: Excellent video. Third: Excellent video. I was AMAZED watching this how much EFFORT you put into this and why. THANK YOU for doing that. I use loose leaf TRP and print planner pages I have found I like on it and just use a spiral binding system I had from my old business. I just received a packet of 68 GSM from JetPens and I'll have to test it out now because TRP is what got me back into fountain pens. I love the bundling you have done with your planners, and I praise you for your efforts. I have also read some of your comments on other content creator's sites; you REALLY CARE, and I find that refreshing. I do hope you do well in this adventure!
Thank you so very much for all your kind words! That’s so wonderful to hear - warmed my heart 💞 The 68gsm TRP you got from JetPens should be good actually. They (at least last I talked to them) were selling the original artist grade and weren’t offering Sanzen 68gsm. I am looking into whether the artist grade can be accessed for planners/notebooks in the future and looking at other paper options for future launches as well. Most important to me is that the paper is good, makes us happy and performs!
I've always loved the 52 gsm but was looking forward to the 68 gsm if it performed better. Too bad it did not perform. I'm still very excited about your new planner!❣
Thank you so much. I too love 52 gsm so I would have been happy using the planners either way but I'm definitely bummed I couldn't do what I intended to do. But I'm excited about a potential option --- fingers crossed. Thank you so much for your support and excitement!!!
I absolutely adore you for this video and the details you've pointed out. At first, I thought you didn't like the flatness of color on Sanzen 68, but then you zoomedd in on the feathering and I was just stunned. Such a disappointment. Bless you for running that test and showing us all of it
Papertess Designs went through this with her writer’s journal. She didn’t notice it in the sample paper, but when she got the notebooks, there were complaints. I received that one. So I just use a pen that doesn’t bleed-no fountain pen. So the 68gsm on Take a Note was good for me too. But definitely a difference. I’m glad you noticed before production, though.
That’s interesting- I had only seen her writers journal as being made with non-FP friendly page which others have done in some planners (which weren’t made with any version of TRP) and they’d delayed production so I didn’t know she was able to get the 68 that early. Sadly this doesn’t work with so many writing instruments - not just FPs. I definitely couldn’t use a new paper without testing it thoroughly. Although it’s disappointing that it performs basically like copy paper - especially given the cost of this paper. I am glad I was able to share the process. Sorry about your PTD notebook. That’s an expensive investment for something you can’t use your favorite pens with.
I don't remember if the paper was wrong or if she just assumed it was because it acted the same as yours. I know it was supposed to be 68 tomoe. I still love it. Just not for fountain pens.
I must admit, I am sad about the paper. BUT. IT'S THE HORIZONTAL LAYOUT and two book year that made me buy the planner. Keep going, we are behind you all the way! Rachelle in Seattle
Thank you! Yes I'm sad but also I love the planners and still love 52 gsm TRP...and have some other exciting things planned so all in all I think it's going to work out just fine. Thank you for understanding!
So thankful for this in depth comparison and for setting our expectations on the paper. You really do a wonderful job explaining things with clarity. 😊
I appreciate you for this. The way you structured the releases of the videos was fun and created excitement! The flow and incredibly detailed information was perfect! I'm sorry the 68 gsm didn't work out how you hoped, with that said I'm thrilled with the decision to use 52 gsm paper lol not to mention the planner itself, especially the horizontal version. I loved how you explained the decisions and choices you had and the reasoning for your decisions that made perfect sense. I wish you continued success and look forward to what else you come out with... don't forget about the gents that are fans. Didn't think there would be a planner that could have me leaving my Hobinichi cousin!
Thanks so much! I truly appreciate your comments and understanding! And the compliments! Definitely won’t forget the gents…I know the script font (and some of the foiling) is a little less masculine but will strive to keep to a more gender neutral aesthetic. And luckily the covers are neutral so you can stick a sticker on it 😝 Thanks for your support.
@JustScribble can't wait to get them! Placing my order today! So excited! Also an eager to see the examples you put out. Enough structure yet can easily adjust or modify how you use the spreads!
The paper is really not a big deal for me personally. I’m excited about the layouts and the overall aesthetic of your planner. It really appears to solve all the little issues I have with my hobonichi. Still so blown away by the reveal and the horizontal layout. I’ve been planning out how I’m going to use all the layouts for the past couple days!
Oh nooo, I wish I had seen this video before I pre-orderd my Take a Note planners this year! I was hoping to try it out but now I'm scared for the paper :( Hopefully I can return them if they don't perform well as I use primarily fountain pens. Thanks for your thorough video!
I don’t believe TAN is using the new Sanzen 68gsm TRP. I am certain they have a stash of the original version. I’ve received my order so I’ll test on a video.
Thank you soooo much for your effort. That was the best demonstration I have ever watched. I have done my pre-order already and I will go with whatever paper you choose, because this will be the very best. Also, as a strict vertical layout girl I'm going for the horizontal layout for the very first time, as it is very special and I want to try it. So, thank you so much for all you are doing for the planner community. You are awesome! Greetings from Austria.❤❤❤
I'm sorry that the 68gsm didn't work out & I appreciate you updating us. I can live with 52 gsm but would be interested in another option. Thanks for all your hard work to get a quality plan for us.
I get why you are disappointed after all this hard work but it’s the layout we’re really excited about (and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t actually a little relieved to know that it will be on paper I’m familiar with and know I like already, as opposed to something new, which was making me a little nervous). All’s well that ends well! Can’t wait for books to start going out the door!
I still have brand new packs of 52 gsm tomoe river paper from 2018 and will not open them (yet) I’m using my hundreds of cut pieces from notebooks I made in the past. In other words I’m hoarding it. 😂 Thank you for showing us what was going on with the TR sanzen in 68gsm. I’m so sorry this wasn’t what you had hoped for. 😢 Hopeful they get it right soon so you can plan 2026 in your favorite gsm.
Thank you so much for this comparison! I was just searching to see if Sanzen changed their mind and decided to make 68gsm. Honestly I find it shocking how much of a fail their first batch was, I don't understand why they didn't/couldn't take the old formula and just make the "new" paper (from when the machines got changed) since they bought the company. I can't wait to see when they perfect the process and bring back the paper. I love both 52 and 68gsm and while I generally prefer 52 (I have only used the "new" and "sanzen" varieties and am not too picky about the differences) there are some occasions I want the more opaque paper. Sadly I consider CAL a fail for me since it is so sensitive to skin oils and I have to baby it when I use it.
My planners and notebooks all come in the 52gsm Sanzen (since the 68gsm was such a flop)...which I know many are super excited about. I love CAL but I also adore TRP and I'm excited to offer notebooks in CAL so those that want a thicker paper and like using it for FPs etc. have that option. It is definitely different in how it reacts to oils - kind of like writing on a white board! I think Sanzen can do so much better for their 68gsm paper but I do understand it's hard to immediately replicate what Tomoegawa produced. They purchased the formula and the name but not the machines as I understand. And I also know that weather and temperature and sourcing of the materials for the recipe all play a huge factor. So I totally get that it takes a bit to get it right - I'm just surprised they thought this quality was good enough and even close because it is not. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment.:)
Your diligent testing & honesty is appreciated. I became interested as soon as I heard you say you loved the bundled layout & were designing your own planner! I have been following & waiting for it. I have no interest in the 68 gsm, but hate layouts with months, et al stacked. However… I’m so bummed about the 2-book set! Tried it once, can’t go that route! Is there any possibility that you will offer a complete year book? It seems that the 52 gsm paper you will be using would negate the need for two books?! or maybe even offer both? Thanks for all, love your channel & was sure looking forward to your planner. I’ll keep up hope you will offer a full year book!
Thank you for watching. I'm glad you enjoy the planner setup. Each half year book, with 52 gsm TRP, is the same thickness as a full year Stalogy (we've shown this comparison in our reveal videos). Combined in one book, the planner would be over 700 pages and it would be over 1" thick making it the thickest TRP planner on the market and quite the chunk before it fluffs up from use. Thus at this time there's no intention of offering the planner in a one book option. All that said, I've learned to never say never.
Thank you so much! It was definitely a disappointment. But honestly I love 52 gsm TRP too and I am working on an additional option so I think at the end of the day it will work out the way it should :)
Hey, so I’m about to make my order but I want to make sure that USPS priority mail express international is tracked 😅 I don’t want to mess this order at all!!
Thank you so much! I’m hoping that’s the case for most. But am trying to have a second option if I can for those that want a thicker paper. I’ll know this week.
I recently discovered your RUclips! LOVE your planner!! I’ve been comparing others and yours is winning out. Thank you for your thoroughness and professionalism in going the extra mile to make sure your product meets your standards and ours. Question: I’m new to TRP and really appreciate this one test. But also wondering if 52 gsm takes pencil well? Are there any recommendations on leads? Thanks 😊
So I don't use pencil much (weird aversion to them LOL) but in the times I've used pencils and from seeing others use them and reading reviews over the years I've found that TRP works fine with pencil. HB and 2B I find are the best options. It can be helpful to use a smudge-proof lead (Uni sells some for your mechanical pencil). If you press hard you might want a pencil board when writing with pencil just so you don't get as much indention on the pages. And you'll want to use care when erasing just because it is a very thin paper.
So sorry that you can’t use the paper you wanted. It is such a disappointing outcome for the paper. Hopefully they can adjust it. But I think the 52gsm will be a good alternative. And I also noticed a little change in my a6 Stalogy as well. I had a little bleed through with a juicy ink in my fountain pen when I first started to write in my bullet journal. But I learned to not use juicy pens and it has been okay since.
Yes it’s strange because I don’t remember hearing anything about a change in their paper or process but I’ve noticed a difference with pens and the feel when it’s been written on. It’s not quite as pleasurable. Still love them though 💞
I have been out of the loop for a bit. That said, I received my Hobonichi - which uses the 52 gsm TR paper I do believe- and the quality has changed SO much that it is totally unusable. I've been in a hobo for years now, so I came here looking at your planner, but now I'm afraid to purchase it because what if the 52 gsm is also bad?
So the Hobonichi planners don’t use 52gsm Sanzen TRP, they use 47gsm Sanzen TRP. I have been using 52gsm Sanzen for a couple of years and did show the writing samples on a sheet I received from my manufacturer in this video. I do know that there’s been some inconsistencies with the Sanzen 52gsm this year but I’ve done my best to test to try to provide the best product possible.
@@JustScribble Oh, I know you have! I applaud all you have done to try and make the best product and be so transparent about it all also, unlike Hobonichi. I didn't know theirs was 47gsm, that helps put my mind at ease! I was more upset about the demise of my beloved Hobo than anything really. I'm sorry I worded it in such a way to make it sound like your planners would be the same. I do love the layout! Off to look again!
Yes Frictions generally work better on a thicker paper - though I'll have to test on this new version because it's got some major issues in it's quality. But we will monitor their paper as they make changes - and always look at other options as well when we can. Thanks so much for watching.
It’s a real shame that this Sanzen Tomoe River 68 gsm didn’t pan out-especially considering that Tomoe River used to be pretty much the gold standard for fountain paper across all its weights. As a side thing, I’ve been on a quest to find nonpunched loose dot-grid paper that works well with fountain pens, and I had really been hoping that Sanzen’s Tomoe River paper might’ve been able to fit the bill once they got production going. But that’s now seeming less and less likely.
We are disappointed in this but this was completely out of our control. I would rather be transparent and upfront and provide a quality product that send out paper that is not usable. That said, we are working on a 2nd paper option to provide an alternative to Sanzen 52 gsm TRP for those that want something a little thicker with less shadowing/ghosting. There are a few options you have for non-punched paper - are you looking for pre-printed grid or something you can print a dot grid on yourself?
@@JustScribble I primarily looking for loose sheets with a preprinted dot grid. I’m somewhat hesitant to print my own dot grid paper in part because home printers typically have a minimum margin of half an inch or so, and I’d much rather have the dots fill out each sheet. And on top of that, with Tomoe River paper being so thin, I’m also a bit worried that it could end up getting wrinkled when going through the printer in any case.
I understand. I don't have issues printing on TRP but I know every printer is different. PaperPenguin sells dot grid that you can get unpunched or in different sizes so that's a potential option. There's some dot grid looseleaf on amazon as well...hope that helps some :)
No it does not. The planner half books in 52 gsm are the size of a full year Stalogy (which we shared in our regal videos) and each book has over 350 pages. A full year book of our planner is over 700 pages which would make it the thickest on the market. At this time, for 2025, we are not creating it as a full book planner.
I know you are disappointed and I hate that! For me- I am that mid person - as long as I get a Just Scribble PLANS for 2025 I will be over the moon 🌙 ❤
Paper quality trumps everything else. It's really quite disgusting how formerly high quality fountain pen paper manufacturers decided to screw over their customers for money. The same thing happened with Clairefontaine and their terrible Morocco made paper.
Yes I agree - paper foremost. Otherwise we won't use our planners which defeats their entire purpose. I loved Clairfontaine...it is so sad. Moleskine as well - their paper shift is so bad...depending on which batch you get. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
We are disappointed in this but this was completely out of our control. I would rather be transparent and upfront and provide a quality product that send out paper that is not usable. That said, we are working on a 2nd paper option to provide an alternative to Sanzen 52 gsm TRP for those that want something a little thicker with less shadowing/ghosting.
I know many of you will be disappointed that our planners won't be made in Sanzen 68 gsm after all. But I hope after watching our video testing the paper that you understand our decision. We will making our planners in Sanzen 52 gsm as a result of these findings. However, we are looking at offering a 2nd paper option (we'll know this week) and if we can make that happen there will be two paper options to satisfy the needs of our customers. We will be sharing this update on Instagram and also the website. If you've already preordered you'll receive an email this week updating you as well.
I agree with you! That feathering on the 68 gsm will bug me and I wouldn’t use the planner. I did pre-order so very happy you made this video and thank you for making sure we get a quality product!
I put in a preorder as well. So glad you are putting in all this detail to end up with a great planner.
I think you made a good call, please pass on these results to the paper company- I’m much happier to have good performing 52 gsm than that performance of 68
The fact that you actually tested this and then put up the comparison video for us to see and understand why you came to that decision is AMAZING. Thank you for the transparency. Many times, the consumer would've had no idea and would've blindly paid for something and not known that the quality wouldn't be what they expected. Plus, the LAYOUT is what I am paying for. Coming from other planner companies who don't even take paper quality into account, this is great.
Thank you for your honesty. My order will still be placed. :)
Thank you so much! Ensuring we create a quality, functional planner is at the top of our priorities. I'm glad you are loving the layout - we love it too!
I'm good with the 52 gsm... For me it was about your planner structure and not the gsm. Thank you for sharing and being transparent.
You are so welcome! Thank you for the support and love!
I agree! I loved the layout and I have a sweet cover for the planners!
I’m sorry you’re disappointed but it was truly the most thorough demonstration of the various papers I’ve ever seen. I’m so surprised at how the new 68gsm performed with different mediums, but I’m also very grateful that you tested it so thoroughly. Thank you for your tireless effort in creating the best product possible! I’m excited to see where this journey takes you 🥰
Thank you so much Zolane!
You’re making the right decision. Feathering is a non-starter, and that bleed-through is substantial. Thanks for the transparency.
Thanks so much Denise.
Not to worry. This will be my first printed planner in over 20 years and 52gsm is fine with me. I don't mind the ghosting. I tend to lean into a vintage aesthetic and ghosting plays nicely with that. Thanks for being so upfront about the challenges this adventure has presented you with. (FYI - I saw the horizontal layout video because of a random algorithm recommendation and was wowed - this is so close to what I've wanted. I've been mentally plotting how I'm going to use it for days and, frankly, looking forward to not having to draw all my layouts.)
Oh thank you so very much for your kind words and supporting our new venture! I agree - 52 gsm is awesome! and I'm just excited to be able to have these planners I've envisioned. So glad the algorithm brought you here!
First: Excellent video. Second: Excellent video. Third: Excellent video. I was AMAZED watching this how much EFFORT you put into this and why. THANK YOU for doing that.
I use loose leaf TRP and print planner pages I have found I like on it and just use a spiral binding system I had from my old business. I just received a packet of 68 GSM from JetPens and I'll have to test it out now because TRP is what got me back into fountain pens.
I love the bundling you have done with your planners, and I praise you for your efforts. I have also read some of your comments on other content creator's sites; you REALLY CARE, and I find that refreshing. I do hope you do well in this adventure!
Thank you so very much for all your kind words! That’s so wonderful to hear - warmed my heart 💞
The 68gsm TRP you got from JetPens should be good actually. They (at least last I talked to them) were selling the original artist grade and weren’t offering Sanzen 68gsm. I am looking into whether the artist grade can be accessed for planners/notebooks in the future and looking at other paper options for future launches as well. Most important to me is that the paper is good, makes us happy and performs!
I've always loved the 52 gsm but was looking forward to the 68 gsm if it performed better. Too bad it did not perform. I'm still very excited about your new planner!❣
Thank you so much. I too love 52 gsm so I would have been happy using the planners either way but I'm definitely bummed I couldn't do what I intended to do. But I'm excited about a potential option --- fingers crossed. Thank you so much for your support and excitement!!!
I am still excited for the horizontal planner in the 52 gsm. The layout is what made the planner perfect for me.
Yay I’m so glad!
I absolutely adore you for this video and the details you've pointed out.
At first, I thought you didn't like the flatness of color on Sanzen 68, but then you zoomedd in on the feathering and I was just stunned. Such a disappointment.
Bless you for running that test and showing us all of it
Thank you 😊 I definitely want to be transparent with my decisions and do the best for my customers.
Papertess Designs went through this with her writer’s journal. She didn’t notice it in the sample paper, but when she got the notebooks, there were complaints. I received that one. So I just use a pen that doesn’t bleed-no fountain pen. So the 68gsm on Take a Note was good for me too. But definitely a difference. I’m glad you noticed before production, though.
That’s interesting- I had only seen her writers journal as being made with non-FP friendly page which others have done in some planners (which weren’t made with any version of TRP) and they’d delayed production so I didn’t know she was able to get the 68 that early. Sadly this doesn’t work with so many writing instruments - not just FPs. I definitely couldn’t use a new paper without testing it thoroughly. Although it’s disappointing that it performs basically like copy paper - especially given the cost of this paper. I am glad I was able to share the process. Sorry about your PTD notebook. That’s an expensive investment for something you can’t use your favorite pens with.
I don't remember if the paper was wrong or if she just assumed it was because it acted the same as yours. I know it was supposed to be 68 tomoe. I still love it. Just not for fountain pens.
@@vernabailey3671 Gotcha. That's good information. Thank you for sharing. Glad you still love it!
Love that you took us through this process. Thanks so much, still can’t wait for the horizontal planners!! No worries, you are doing great! ❤
Thank you so much!
I must admit, I am sad about the paper. BUT. IT'S THE HORIZONTAL LAYOUT and two book year that made me buy the planner. Keep going, we are behind you all the way! Rachelle in Seattle
Thank you! Yes I'm sad but also I love the planners and still love 52 gsm TRP...and have some other exciting things planned so all in all I think it's going to work out just fine. Thank you for understanding!
So thankful for this in depth comparison and for setting our expectations on the paper. You really do a wonderful job explaining things with clarity. 😊
Thank you!! I’m so glad it was helpful.
I appreciate you for this. The way you structured the releases of the videos was fun and created excitement! The flow and incredibly detailed information was perfect! I'm sorry the 68 gsm didn't work out how you hoped, with that said I'm thrilled with the decision to use 52 gsm paper lol not to mention the planner itself, especially the horizontal version. I loved how you explained the decisions and choices you had and the reasoning for your decisions that made perfect sense. I wish you continued success and look forward to what else you come out with... don't forget about the gents that are fans. Didn't think there would be a planner that could have me leaving my Hobinichi cousin!
Thanks so much! I truly appreciate your comments and understanding! And the compliments! Definitely won’t forget the gents…I know the script font (and some of the foiling) is a little less masculine but will strive to keep to a more gender neutral aesthetic. And luckily the covers are neutral so you can stick a sticker on it 😝
Thanks for your support.
@JustScribble can't wait to get them! Placing my order today! So excited! Also an eager to see the examples you put out. Enough structure yet can easily adjust or modify how you use the spreads!
Thanks for the transparency! I’m curious what the second option will be. Thanks for keeping us posted.
I’ll be sharing soon 🤞🏻
Thank you for a thorough video regarding sampling of inks. You went above and beyond. ❤
You are very welcome! 😊 thank you so much for watching.
What a process! 😅
Happy with whatever you think is best. I'm here for the layout and supporting your channel and product. ❤
Thank you so much!!
The paper is really not a big deal for me personally. I’m excited about the layouts and the overall aesthetic of your planner. It really appears to solve all the little issues I have with my hobonichi. Still so blown away by the reveal and the horizontal layout. I’ve been planning out how I’m going to use all the layouts for the past couple days!
YAY! Thank you so much!!
Oh nooo, I wish I had seen this video before I pre-orderd my Take a Note planners this year! I was hoping to try it out but now I'm scared for the paper :( Hopefully I can return them if they don't perform well as I use primarily fountain pens. Thanks for your thorough video!
I don’t believe TAN is using the new Sanzen 68gsm TRP. I am certain they have a stash of the original version. I’ve received my order so I’ll test on a video.
@@JustScribble subscribed! Can't wait for that video 🤩
I now have both TAN and the horizontal from JS the layout is phenomenal!
I’m in the ‘it doesn’t matter’ category. I’m just so hyped for the notebooks!
Thank you so much!
Thank you soooo much for your effort. That was the best demonstration I have ever watched. I have done my pre-order already and I will go with whatever paper you choose, because this will be the very best. Also, as a strict vertical layout girl I'm going for the horizontal layout for the very first time, as it is very special and I want to try it. So, thank you so much for all you are doing for the planner community. You are awesome! Greetings from Austria.❤❤❤
You are so welcome! Thank you so much for watching and your kind words!!
You work so hard for us ❤
Awe thank you!! Trying 💗
I'm sorry that the 68gsm didn't work out & I appreciate you updating us. I can live with 52 gsm but would be interested in another option. Thanks for all your hard work to get a quality plan for us.
Thanks so much.
I'm sorry you're disappointed, but I appreciate your transparency and thoroughness on quality tests!
Thank you very much!
I get why you are disappointed after all this hard work but it’s the layout we’re really excited about (and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t actually a little relieved to know that it will be on paper I’m familiar with and know I like already, as opposed to something new, which was making me a little nervous). All’s well that ends well! Can’t wait for books to start going out the door!
Thank you so very much!
I still have brand new packs of 52 gsm tomoe river paper from 2018 and will not open them (yet) I’m using my hundreds of cut pieces from notebooks I made in the past. In other words I’m hoarding it. 😂 Thank you for showing us what was going on with the TR sanzen in 68gsm. I’m so sorry this wasn’t what you had hoped for. 😢
Hopeful they get it right soon so you can plan 2026 in your favorite gsm.
It’s definitely a bummer. I hope they get it right soon too.
Thank you so much for this comparison! I was just searching to see if Sanzen changed their mind and decided to make 68gsm. Honestly I find it shocking how much of a fail their first batch was, I don't understand why they didn't/couldn't take the old formula and just make the "new" paper (from when the machines got changed) since they bought the company.
I can't wait to see when they perfect the process and bring back the paper. I love both 52 and 68gsm and while I generally prefer 52 (I have only used the "new" and "sanzen" varieties and am not too picky about the differences) there are some occasions I want the more opaque paper. Sadly I consider CAL a fail for me since it is so sensitive to skin oils and I have to baby it when I use it.
My planners and notebooks all come in the 52gsm Sanzen (since the 68gsm was such a flop)...which I know many are super excited about. I love CAL but I also adore TRP and I'm excited to offer notebooks in CAL so those that want a thicker paper and like using it for FPs etc. have that option. It is definitely different in how it reacts to oils - kind of like writing on a white board!
I think Sanzen can do so much better for their 68gsm paper but I do understand it's hard to immediately replicate what Tomoegawa produced. They purchased the formula and the name but not the machines as I understand. And I also know that weather and temperature and sourcing of the materials for the recipe all play a huge factor. So I totally get that it takes a bit to get it right - I'm just surprised they thought this quality was good enough and even close because it is not.
Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment.:)
Your diligent testing & honesty is appreciated.
I became interested as soon as I heard you say you loved the bundled layout & were designing your own planner! I have been following & waiting for it.
I have no interest in the 68 gsm, but hate layouts with months, et al stacked.
However… I’m so bummed about the 2-book set! Tried it once, can’t go that route! Is there any possibility that you will offer a complete year book? It seems that the 52 gsm paper you will be using would negate the need for two books?!
or maybe even offer both?
Thanks for all, love your channel & was sure looking forward to your planner. I’ll keep up hope you will offer a full year book!
Thank you for watching. I'm glad you enjoy the planner setup.
Each half year book, with 52 gsm TRP, is the same thickness as a full year Stalogy (we've shown this comparison in our reveal videos). Combined in one book, the planner would be over 700 pages and it would be over 1" thick making it the thickest TRP planner on the market and quite the chunk before it fluffs up from use. Thus at this time there's no intention of offering the planner in a one book option. All that said, I've learned to never say never.
What a shame, shame to Sanzen TRP 😢 your planners are amazing no matter the paper though.
Thank you so much! It was definitely a disappointment. But honestly I love 52 gsm TRP too and I am working on an additional option so I think at the end of the day it will work out the way it should :)
I really appreciate your thorough test. I’d rather have a lovely paper than the latest new fangled fad. I have always really liked the 52 gsm TRP.
Thank you!
Hey, so I’m about to make my order but I want to make sure that USPS priority mail express international is tracked 😅 I don’t want to mess this order at all!!
Thank you for reaching out and for your support!!! Yes all priority mail is tracked including international.
Well that stinks! I really don’t mind either way. I’m excited either way!
Thank you so much!
The paper does not really make any difference to me, honestly. It is the layout that is the attraction to me!
Thank you so much! I’m hoping that’s the case for most. But am trying to have a second option if I can for those that want a thicker paper. I’ll know this week.
I recently discovered your RUclips! LOVE your planner!! I’ve been comparing others and yours is winning out. Thank you for your thoroughness and professionalism in going the extra mile to make sure your product meets your standards and ours.
Question: I’m new to TRP and really appreciate this one test. But also wondering if 52 gsm takes pencil well? Are there any recommendations on leads? Thanks 😊
*this pen test
So I don't use pencil much (weird aversion to them LOL) but in the times I've used pencils and from seeing others use them and reading reviews over the years I've found that TRP works fine with pencil. HB and 2B I find are the best options. It can be helpful to use a smudge-proof lead (Uni sells some for your mechanical pencil). If you press hard you might want a pencil board when writing with pencil just so you don't get as much indention on the pages. And you'll want to use care when erasing just because it is a very thin paper.
@@JustScribble thank you so much!!
I appreciate the transparency… pun intended ❤
😝 thanks so much!
@@JustScribble imma still order too lol
So sorry that you can’t use the paper you wanted. It is such a disappointing outcome for the paper. Hopefully they can adjust it. But I think the 52gsm will be a good alternative.
And I also noticed a little change in my a6 Stalogy as well. I had a little bleed through with a juicy ink in my fountain pen when I first started to write in my bullet journal. But I learned to not use juicy pens and it has been okay since.
Yes it’s strange because I don’t remember hearing anything about a change in their paper or process but I’ve noticed a difference with pens and the feel when it’s been written on. It’s not quite as pleasurable. Still love them though 💞
I have been out of the loop for a bit. That said, I received my Hobonichi - which uses the 52 gsm TR paper I do believe- and the quality has changed SO much that it is totally unusable. I've been in a hobo for years now, so I came here looking at your planner, but now I'm afraid to purchase it because what if the 52 gsm is also bad?
So the Hobonichi planners don’t use 52gsm Sanzen TRP, they use 47gsm Sanzen TRP. I have been using 52gsm Sanzen for a couple of years and did show the writing samples on a sheet I received from my manufacturer in this video. I do know that there’s been some inconsistencies with the Sanzen 52gsm this year but I’ve done my best to test to try to provide the best product possible.
@@JustScribble Oh, I know you have! I applaud all you have done to try and make the best product and be so transparent about it all also, unlike Hobonichi. I didn't know theirs was 47gsm, that helps put my mind at ease! I was more upset about the demise of my beloved Hobo than anything really. I'm sorry I worded it in such a way to make it sound like your planners would be the same. I do love the layout! Off to look again!
I feel like Friction pens work so much better on this paper. But the thinness of the other is definitely a challenge for me sometimes.
Yes Frictions generally work better on a thicker paper - though I'll have to test on this new version because it's got some major issues in it's quality. But we will monitor their paper as they make changes - and always look at other options as well when we can. Thanks so much for watching.
It’s a real shame that this Sanzen Tomoe River 68 gsm didn’t pan out-especially considering that Tomoe River used to be pretty much the gold standard for fountain paper across all its weights.
As a side thing, I’ve been on a quest to find nonpunched loose dot-grid paper that works well with fountain pens, and I had really been hoping that Sanzen’s Tomoe River paper might’ve been able to fit the bill once they got production going. But that’s now seeming less and less likely.
We are disappointed in this but this was completely out of our control. I would rather be transparent and upfront and provide a quality product that send out paper that is not usable. That said, we are working on a 2nd paper option to provide an alternative to Sanzen 52 gsm TRP for those that want something a little thicker with less shadowing/ghosting.
There are a few options you have for non-punched paper - are you looking for pre-printed grid or something you can print a dot grid on yourself?
@@JustScribble I primarily looking for loose sheets with a preprinted dot grid.
I’m somewhat hesitant to print my own dot grid paper in part because home printers typically have a minimum margin of half an inch or so, and I’d much rather have the dots fill out each sheet. And on top of that, with Tomoe River paper being so thin, I’m also a bit worried that it could end up getting wrinkled when going through the printer in any case.
I understand. I don't have issues printing on TRP but I know every printer is different. PaperPenguin sells dot grid that you can get unpunched or in different sizes so that's a potential option. There's some dot grid looseleaf on amazon as well...hope that helps some :)
Does this mean you’ll make
A single planner option instead of just two volumes?! (:
No it does not. The planner half books in 52 gsm are the size of a full year Stalogy (which we shared in our regal videos) and each book has over 350 pages. A full year book of our planner is over 700 pages which would make it the thickest on the market. At this time, for 2025, we are not creating it as a full book planner.
Understandable, thank you!
I know you are disappointed and I hate that! For me- I am that mid person - as long as I get a Just Scribble PLANS for 2025 I will be over the moon 🌙 ❤
Thank you so much Margarita!
I'm so disappointed for your sake, but for me 52gsm is just fine
Thanks Katie!
Paper quality trumps everything else.
It's really quite disgusting how formerly high quality fountain pen paper manufacturers decided to screw over their customers for money. The same thing happened with Clairefontaine and their terrible Morocco made paper.
Yes I agree - paper foremost. Otherwise we won't use our planners which defeats their entire purpose. I loved Clairfontaine...it is so sad. Moleskine as well - their paper shift is so bad...depending on which batch you get. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Yeah this is a no for me. Sad Face
We are disappointed in this but this was completely out of our control. I would rather be transparent and upfront and provide a quality product that send out paper that is not usable. That said, we are working on a 2nd paper option to provide an alternative to Sanzen 52 gsm TRP for those that want something a little thicker with less shadowing/ghosting.
@@JustScribbleI appreciate & applaud your transparency.
Thank you very much! :)