Joybuy Insights

Stationery supplies: how to choose the right equipment for every use

Pupils, students, parents, teachers, artists and professionals don’t all look for the same things in a pencil case or at a desk. Yet product descriptions often focus on colour, the number of pieces or the design, without explaining the features that will really make a difference day to day.

Three common pitfalls are worth looking out for:

  • Choosing the wrong size: an A7 notebook fits easily into a bag, but leaves little room for longer notes. On the other hand, an oversized notebook can quickly become a burden to carry.
  • Choosing a nib or lead that doesn’t suit the task: HB pencils are suitable for writing and everyday drawing. A 0.5 mm mechanical pencil offers greater precision, but you’ll need to find the right refills.
  • Taking claims of versatility at face value: an electric pencil sharpener may accept several diameters, but not necessarily wax-based pencils or crayons. It’s best to check its limitations before placing an order.

What to check before you order

1. Size and binding

The right size mainly depends on what you plan to use it for:

  • A5: compact enough for lessons, the office, journalling or everyday note-taking;
  • A7: ideal for lists, reminders and jotting down ideas on the go;
  • A4: best for documents, folders, worksheets and projects that need plenty of writing space;
  • Spiral-bound notebook: handy for turning pages easily and writing with the notebook flat;
  • Blank-page notebook: ideal for drawing, diagrams, collage and creative projects.

The binding is worth a look, too. A metal spiral lets the notebook lie completely flat, while a hard cover offers better protection for the pages in your bag. If you’re buying a notebook as a gift, the finish obviously matters, but it shouldn’t overshadow the essentials: the number of pages and the paper weight.

2. Lead, nib and ink type

HB pencils offer a versatile balance between hardness and line intensity. They’re suitable for writing, schoolwork and light sketching. For fine lines, 0.5 mm mechanical pencils provide a consistent line width and save you from having to sharpen the pencil repeatedly. However, check that refills are easy to find and that the mechanism can withstand daily use.

For writing in colour, gel pens are available with a range of nib widths. A 0.5 mm nib is precise for annotations, while a 0.7 mm nib usually makes a bolder line. Erasable gel pens use ink that reacts to friction or heat, depending on the model. They’re very handy for rough work and diaries, but it’s best to check the school or document’s guidelines before using them for formal assignments.

3. Pencil sharpeners and care

A manual pencil sharpener is lightweight, quiet and easy to keep in a pencil case. A model with two openings may accept several diameters, including thicker coloured pencils. A built-in shavings container stops shavings from spreading around the bottom of your bag.

An electric pencil sharpener is more useful in an office, classroom or studio where several pencils need sharpening regularly. Before you buy, check:

  • the range of diameters it accepts;
  • whether it has an automatic stop;
  • the power source;
  • the container capacity;
  • whether it’s suitable for wax-based pencils.

Whatever model you choose, empty the container regularly and clear any debris from around the blade. Unplug an electric sharpener before cleaning it, and stop using it if it makes an unusual noise or gets unusually hot.

Our picks for every kind of user

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
M&G HB graphite pencils, pack of 12, pre-sharpened

M&G HB graphite pencils, pack of 12, pre-sharpened

Why this is a good fit for this user: This pack of 12 pre-sharpened HB pencils covers everyday needs at school, at home and in the office, so you won’t have to restock your pencil case every time you lose one.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The HB grade is clearly stated, and the pack of 12 helps make sure your pencil case doesn’t run short.

Key benefits and features

Hexagonal barrel that won’t roll away, built-in eraser and HB leads suited to writing and light drawing.

Recommended for : Premium stationery fans
Jubiluu A5 lined notebook with hard cover and spiral binding

Jubiluu A5 lined notebook with hard cover and spiral binding

Why this is a good fit for this user: This A5 notebook combines a hard cover, spiral binding and an elastic closure for a more polished option for personal or professional use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the A5 size, 96 sheets and 100 g lined paper, rather than relying on the cover’s appearance alone.

Key benefits and features

100 g ivory lined paper, hard cover and elastic closure.

Recommended for : Specialist tasks and frequent use
Black tenwin electric pencil sharpener

tenwin electric pencil sharpener, black

Why this is a good fit for this user: Powered by a mains adapter, this electric pencil sharpener is designed for studios, classrooms and offices where several pencils need sharpening regularly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated 6 to 12 mm diameter range and the exclusion of wax-based pencils make it easy to check compatibility before use.

Key benefits and features

Three sharpening settings, automatic stop and a large shavings container.

Recommended for : Notes on the go and everyday organisation
M&G Meeboki A7 spiral notebooks

M&G Meeboki spiral notebooks, pack of 4 A7 notebooks

Why this is a good fit for this user: Their compact size is ideal for lists, reminders and jotting down ideas on the train, at work or in class.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The A7 size is clearly stated, so you won’t mistake a pocket notebook for one designed for lengthy notes.

Key benefits and features

Pack of four notebooks, squared paper, top spiral binding and a soft cover.

Looking for more options ?

We’ve brought together a full range of products, updated in real time, that meet these exacting criteria and European safety standards.

Frequently asked questions about stationery supplies

What paper weight should I choose for a notebook?

80 g/m² paper is suitable for everyday notes and helps keep your notebook lightweight. At 100 g/m², the pages are thicker and ink is generally less likely to show through, depending on the pen you use. For drawing, also consider the paper’s texture and whether it’s suitable for pencils, felt-tip pens or washes.

How long does a gel pen last?

It depends on how often you write, the nib width and the amount of ink. Replace the caps on capped pens and retract click pens after use to help prevent them from drying out. Erasable gel pens should also be kept away from heat sources.

Does an electric pencil sharpener cost more to run than a manual one?

Running costs are mainly limited to electricity and blade maintenance. A manual model uses no electricity, but takes more effort and may produce a less even point if the blade is poor quality. The right choice depends on how many pencils you need to sharpen, where you’ll use it and how much convenience matters to you.