(Sarah Read is an author, editor, yarn artist, and pen/paper/ink addict. You can find more about her at her website and on Twitter. And check out her latest book, Out of Water, now available where books are sold!)
When I ordered my pile of Traveler's Company accessories to build out my kit, there were definitely some accessories I didn't fully understand. The Brass Clip was one of them. Why add something heavy and bulky to a minimal design? I get it, now that I've had some time to put it to use.
The first great thing that the brass clip does is that it keeps things secure inside my notebook. It holds the folder shut, and it adds friction to the wallet insert so I know my cards and important papers are secure inside the pockets. I've never had anything slip out of the notebook, but having the clip there feels like extra security, which is especially welcome when I tuck notes and bits of paper inside, which is most of the time.
The clip also serves as a bit of a flag. It sticks up above the top edge of the notebook, making the notebook easier to find inside my bag, and the clip is strong enough that I can even pull the notebook out by the clip. This has been extra handy, since I'm currently using the notebook as my wallet. My necessary purse of the moment is a cavernous tote bag, so anything that helps me locate and grab ahold of my wallet/planner is hugely appreciated.
And of course, the clip's primary and most useful feature is that it holds the notebook open for you, so the whole thing can lie open flat while you work. It works so well in this regard that I've begun migrating it between all my notebooks--it's now a daily essential for all my stationery. It serves as a bookmark when the book is closed, and a holder when it's open, and it has quickly become my favorite Traveler's Company accessory.
The clip opens very wide, so it can easily fit the whole notebook in its maw. It has a simple but sturdy coil construction. It has a very strong jaw, but it doesn't hurt when you clip it on your finger. Yes, I tested this just for you, because I care. It does hurt if you clip it on your ear, though, so do exercise some caution.
All this usefulness! It makes it worth the weight that the brass adds to the notebook setup. The heaviness actually makes it work better. And it's even worth the price.
I felt a bit silly when I first bought it. $21 is a lot for a clip, even a snazzy brass one, and I wondered if I was just buying it for its looks. Because it does look good! It's a classy bit of bling to an otherwise austere lineup. But this is way more than just a pretty accessory--it's a multipurpose stationery game-changer. No regrets (except for the clipping it on my ear bit).
(JetPens provided this product at no charge to The Pen Addict for review purposes.)
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