Bound by Sarah x Otter Lunn Creative
Notebook and Pattern Design
Overview
During the national lockdown, I collaborated with Bound by Sarah on a collection of nine unique notebook cover designs. The project began as a creative outlet in a time of isolation and quickly evolved into a vibrant collaboration that celebrated design, connection, and creativity.
Each notebook was designed to bring joy and self-expression into everyday note-taking, transforming simple stationery into something personal and uplifting.
The Challenge
With limited in-person collaboration possible, the project had to be developed entirely online through virtual meetings and shared concept boards. The designs needed to be playful and visually striking, while also reflecting Sarah’s brand personality; creative, approachable, and full of heart.
The challenge was to find the right balance between boldness and usability so that each notebook felt beautiful and expressive, yet functional and practical for everyday use.
The new designs needed to:
Create a cohesive collection of nine bold, eye-catching notebook covers
Reflect Sarah’s playful and creative personality
Balance artistic expression with everyday functionality
Provide a positive, uplifting experience during lockdown
Build connection and creativity at a time when people felt most isolated
Strategy and Creative Direction
Our creative direction focused on combining witty phrases, bold colour palettes, and engaging illustrations to capture attention and make people smile.
Typography as personality: Playful phrases and expressive lettering brought warmth and relatability to each design.
Vibrant visuals: A mix of colour blocking, patterns, and layered textures ensured every notebook felt distinctive yet cohesive as a collection.
User connection: Each design was crafted to feel personal and mood-lifting - the kind of notebook you’d enjoy picking up every day.
Collaborating virtually via Skype made the process both creative and energising, showing how meaningful design partnerships can thrive even during physical distance.
Skills
Deliverables
Notebook cover designs
Typography and layout
Illustration and pattern design
Colour palette development
Print preparation and production files