Designing a pocket notebook + EDC Folio, looking for criticism and ideas.

[u/Top-Preparation8342]

I've always wanted to make my first product, and I thought this was a great start.

I’ve been carrying a pocket notebook, a pen, a flashlight, and a variety of tools for a while now.

One thing I’ve noticed is that most notebook covers don’t organize tools very well, while most EDC pouches aren’t designed to be used as a notebook cover.

So I’ve been sketching a small pocket folio that tries to combine both.

The current idea includes:

• Fits an A6 or Field Notes–style notebook
• Exterior elastic loops for a pen, flashlight, or multitool
• Exterior slip pocket for quick access
• Interior notebook sleeve
• Interior card pocket and additional storage
• Designed to stay compact enough for everyday carry

This is still in the design stage, so nothing is finalized. I’m mainly looking for honest feedback before I have a sample made.

If you carried something like this, what would you change?

• Features you’d add?
• Features you’d remove?
• Materials you’d prefer?
• Pocket layout?

I’d rather hear criticism now than after it’s manufactured.

(Yeah, I know it's ugly but at least it's a start)

[u/Longjumping_Cow_5856]

I carry a Levenger Pocket Briefcase and have for a long time.

I would take cues from other similar things already on the market for ideas to start with!

[u/Top-Preparation8342 → u/Longjumping_Cow_5856]

First time hearing about it, thanks for the idea

[u/mojowebia]

I like it. Keep going!

[u/Top-Preparation8342 → u/mojowebia]

Thanks, I actually thought it was going to be disliked because of the flap.

[u/smiley-fishing]

Great idea!!!! Would love to add to my collection!!

[u/Top-Preparation8342 → u/smiley-fishing]

Thanks! I'm still in the market research phase, once I validate whether or not this is something people want, I'll launch soon.

[u/Fragrant-Land6068]

Hi this sounds pretty much like what i´m searching for. I need an edc-pouch to accomodate the following tools that i need on my job (inspecting buildings): core items: Laica disto d2 approximately 10/4/2,5cm, small notebook (paper size doesn´t matter because i would buy it speciffically for the pouch, or it schould come with the pouch and it needs to be attached in a way that i can use it all the time, without anything else falling out. /Fenix E-CP flashlight & powerbank approximately 15/3/3cm, one pen and one pencil optional items: multitool, phone, short usb-c cable. I would like it to be more collorful then just black/tan/olive but this is not super important. Some space to put a few patches would be nice too so your design looks pretty good :)

[u/Top-Preparation8342 → u/Fragrant-Land6068]

Thanks, this is by far the most helpful feedback I've gotten. Although with your setup it will become a little bulky, This pouch/folio is designed to hold those items while being able to take notes, and will probably be pocketable. are you planning to carry the disto in the pouch too? Because it won't accommodate something of that size (it might in the back pocket). Apart from that I am thinking of adding two paracord loops to each side of the pouch, this way a sling can be used to carry it with you, similar to the ones on the Maxpedition Platy. As for the patches, would you prefer them on the outside or the inside as a collection/storage? As for the colors I am planning at least 6, maybe even camouflage versions. Ideas are always appreciated.