Leporello

Our Leporello sketchbook – also known as a concertina or accordion sketchbook – is our trusted adventure companion: an enduring leather cover with changeable inserts for each journey or meaningful occasion.

The word “Leporello” comes from the name of a servant in Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni, who unfolds a long list of Don Giovanni’s love conquests. Legend has it that his name was later borrowed for folded books – most often used for travel journals, postcard collections, and manuscripts that reveal a story as they unfold.

We love how stories gradually unfold when we travel or immerse ourselves in a longer painting experience. Leporello feels like the perfect name for holding and revealing the love stories of our lives.

Our leporellos are designed to rest comfortably in one hand, allowing you to sketch securely and with ease – even while standing in the quiet shadow of a tree in a small village square. The format offers flexibility: vertical, square, or horizontal compositions – simply unfold as much as you need. Slim and refined in profile, the book slips effortlessly into a pocket or small bag, making it a natural companion rather than a burden.

We have used these leather covers with changeable leporellos for ourselves for years. They have accompanied us on travels and holidays, and over time the leather develops a beautiful patina, becoming a true extension of the artist who carries it.

The leather cover is handcrafted by our friends at Lotte’s Papery. It measures 21 cm x 11 cm and can be personalized. Lotte’s Papery offers embossing of up to 5 letters in plain, gold, or silver. You may also choose to emboss our pigeon, acorn, dragonfly, or bentgrass symbol. Please allow up to 3 weeks for the making and personalization of the leather cover.

The paper insert measures 19 cm x 9.5 cm and consists of 14 “pages”, with a total length of 141.5 cm – generous space for an extended weekend journey. We use SMLT 100% cotton paper, 260 g/m2, chosen for its strength, texture, and ability to beautifully hold watercolour.

You are warmly invited to order an accompanying custom palette for your sketchbook here. If you are planning a journey, the Palette Mundi palettes – composed by our community – may offer inspiration.