Does anyone have, or have experience of, the Graphic Zip binder? I'm considering it as an alternative to the Cuban (it's a lot cheaper!) after the Snow Debacle last week. Steve, do you know the ring size on the Graphic Zip?
Thanks Steve - great info. Not sure I can action right now (having to pay to re-stock my Hampstead took care of that!) but I'll see if it's still on offer in a week or two. Also, our forthcoming change of address would make it difficult to order before next week - but thanks, much appreciated!
I got to handle a Graphic Zip in my local TK Maxx a few months ago. It's a lovely binder (especially in the grey colour) and is very compact looking for a zipped Filofax. It's much smaller in width than the Cuban Zip which is enormous and takes up a lot of space in a bag or briefcase. It also looked like it would be a sturdy, hard-wearing binder.
True, it's big...maybe smaller than the Cuban, though. I wouldn't buy one until I had been to Conduit Street and seen the Cuban (the Graphic being withdrawn now). Interesting thoughts though
David, you have been so upset and dissatisfied with FF quality for so long (binders AND insert quality) that I wonder that you still buy from them. What's keeping you from switching to another brand?
I've taken my loyalty to them off the table and walked. I only needed a 2013 diary insert, but I refused to give them any more of my $$ while they continue to turn out shoddy product. My 2013 Diary/Planner is a Moleskine, and so far it is working well for my needs. Time will tell if I ever return to the fold.
I guess it's because I now have a system which works for me, which I can use consistently, and it involves the use of the Filofax. Otherwise, believe me, I'd be right behind you. I am thinking about it, though....
It's not the diary that matters to me (I can get far better diaries elsewhere), it's the whole mechanism of task management which lies behind it, plus the fact that i can hold everything together in one place.
Anyway, I don't see any harm in holding FF to account for their abuse of the loyalty of those who invested in the latest round of 'dialogue'....
And several more words: Lots of zip models, well made, great 2PPD inserts, only slightly larger than a Cuban Zip, available used at very reasonable prices (and new too).
David, I had an A5 red graphic zip and a) The top of the binder wore away very quickly and b) ended up chucking it out quickly when the ring mechanism didn't just gape, but went like the grand canyon. Utter waste of money!! My Cuban has been an utterly different kettle of fish, and I'd buy it again!! xx
David - you don't have to get the specific inserts for the FC folder - just get one and use your current inserts? Specially as you only use a diary and lined sheets?
Alison, I was thinking more in terms of getting a FC setup (of inserts and dividers) and inserting it into my TMI binder *if* my binder is wide enough to cope with the 'overlap'. Do you know the measurements of the FC compact inserts, in mm?
David, a late response: I have the book "10 Natural Laws of Successful Time and Life Management" by Hyrum Smith, the head of the Franklin Quest company. Written in the late 1980s or early 1990s it explains the theory of the system well. The actual use of the inserts is extremely intuitive and, in my mind, does not require much direction. The book talks extensively about honing your inner values and forming them into goals and actionable tasks and using your values to prioritize everything in your life. Quite readable. I bought my copy used for about $2 on Amazon.
Filofax personal and FC compact ring spacing is identical.
I intend to write up how I'm using the FC system as a blog post for Laurie at Plannerisms but I've not had time to finish it.
The pages are 4.25 inches wide, so just about 108mm.
I just bought a zipped leather Franklin Quest binder with 1.5 inch rings (38mm!!), used but in excellent condition, on ebay for $25 plus shipping. Not bad at all compared to prices for similar filofax binders.
Josh, thanks so much for taking the trouble to do that. It sounds as if the FC inserts will fit perfectly into my beautiful black leather TMI binder, and the TM inserts are 180 x 110 and punched the same as Filofax personal. On this basis I'm going to take the binder with me when we move and consider refilling it with FC inserts and dividers, which may in fact not happen until the end of the year as I'm currently all set for 2013, especially after the Snow Incident and complete re-stock of the Hampstead last week! But you've certainly given me something to think about.....thank you.
I would really like to try out a Franklin Covey planner, is there anyone here who is located in the US and would be willing to buy one for me and ship it? I think the shipping cost of nearly 60$ that FC wants me to pay is just ridiculous... If you'd be willing to help me, please contact me at sverri (at) sverri (dot) de Thanks!
There are a lot of the FC binders on sale now. Take a look at the Giada in Compact. Its the nicest leather one they carry and I believe they went from a regular price of $129 USD to sale price of $77.00. There are a number of them that Zip, some that snap and some that have a leather strap pass through a loop to hold it closed. There are a number of leather binders as well as many non leather ones. If you decide to look at the one I mentioned above, the Giada Italian leather---take a look at the one in Plum. Its gorgeous.
I'd like to suggest that we all encourage as many people as we can to go digital....then there will be even more binders for sale for us sensible folks!
I'd like a Franklin Covey with the larger rings - but sadly they sell virtually nothing in Compact size on the UK site - I just don't understand the total lack of choice? I'm guessing they aren't a very big operation over here - however I would be willing to wait if they only featured some nice ones and I had to wait for it to arrive with their next consignment!
May be order from the US site and get it delivered to one of our friendly US Philofaxers and get them to post it on to you as a 'Gift' to reduce the import tax/duty
I believe they closed their entire Europe merchandising operation a couple of years ago, then re-instituted it when they realised people just weren't prepared to wait for stuff (or pay the carriage) from the US. I suspect it may all be a bit of a muddle now....
I bought the Veronica on sale from ebay, so it wasn't too much with the shipping. It arrived faster than inserts I ordered from FC UK. Very pleased with the binder. I like the Giada, but need bigger rings same with the Ava really.
Steve, that was my idea exactly. Maybe some nice Philofaxy reader would be willing to post an FC binder to me once I paid for it and had it delivered to them... Anyone? :)
I have a FC Compact red soft leather binder with snap closure (not zipped) not being used. I think it has 1 inch dia rings (25.4mm). I bought it a few years ago and was thinking of using it again. So much so I actually bought the diary insert for this year! But I decided to stick with my Filofax. So it's going spare. I can check it out when I get home.
I will post some pics up on my (rather sparsley populated) blog page this evening. I am going to clear out my study and have loads of spare binders - Daytimer/FC/Filofax.....
Also, in Canada, we're stuck in measurement purgatory. Officially, we went metric 40+ years ago, but being next to the US, we must stay conversant in the antiquated system.
Actually, I rarely drink beer any more, but at one point, I had three personal-sized binders with ~800 pages of tasting notes. We had a basement flood, and they were on the bottom shelf of a bookcase and were destroyed.
Alan, were you offering to ship the binder and hole punch to me serving as my Canadian address? I'm not sure whether you were referring to me. Please do send me an email if you were! sverri (at) sverri (dot) de Thanks! :)
I'm new to posting on Philofaxy, but have been faithfully reading and enjoying this site since April of last year. Anke I live in Canada and would be willing to have you ship your purchase to me. I have checked the FC site and they have free shipping on orders over $75.00 within Canada.
Awful weekend (weather wise) called for laying low in the house and spending a good portion of time on ebay researching Franklin Covey binders. There are some great deals. However, I pretty much suck at bidding because I lost out on 2 binders that I really really really wanted. Well actually I only wanted 1 of them and was outbid on both. And I even used one of those bidding services to bid for me. My bids were too low so I sorely misjudged what these binders would go for. About 45 seconds before the auction ended the highest bid was $5.50 so I thought my bid of $19.99 would get me the binder but someone outbid me by about $2, LOL. This happens to me all the time so I prefer to just buy something not bid on it. Don't have the time or patience to get into bidding wars. Anyway, it was fun and I did end up buying something but really can't get over the one that got away. It was similar to a binder I once owned and this one was unused and ridiculously cheap. I would have gladly paid way more for it than the winner did but didn't bid as such and therefore lost. Lessons learned!
I don't remember where I read it (and google is not my friend today), but I think Filofax is not exhibiting their products at Paperworld this year.... I might be wrong, though!
Oh, I didn`t know that. But you are probably right. I've just checked the list of exhibitors and Filofax is really not there. Suppose we will see Filofax at London fashion week but not at Paperworld anymore :o)
It will be in the list later today, but I'm breaking ranks and giving this particular post a bit more than the usual publicity!
We are loving this post in the 'Philofaxy' office this morning. Especially number 8.... Philofaxy hours would apply... mornings at the keyboard, afternoons spent relaxing by the pool, going for the occasional dip if it got too hot, with an ice cold beer to hand and may be champagne once a week to celebrate our increasing visitor figures....
At the moment I'd settle for any kind of concrete response to any of the points raised at the November meeting.
Filofax. Redefines the phrase 'Kicked into the long grass'.
Disgruntled? Moi? I resent the disrespect shown to those who gave up their time and energy to engage in this. Fool me once - shame on you. Fool me twice.....
Seriously, though, just how long do FF expect th good folks who invested their time and energy to wait for *any* kind of response at all? We haven't even had any indication that the points raised are even being progressed. "we'll get round to it". Yes....right....your whole history of abusing your customer relations says, you won't.
I'm not personally prepared to put up with it without saying what I believe to be the continuing truth - Filofax either don't care, or they do a very good impression of not caring.
That's a nice idea, isn't it. I wish I could believe it. Unfortunately their track record precedes them. Personally, I think the sooner they are sold to a company that understands customer relations, which their prospective owners certainly seem to, the better. If I were FF employee right now I'd be worried about regime change, culture change, and an enforced confrontation with 21st century standards of customer care...
Early pockets only had 4 rings... another Ebay Gotcha I suspect. Ask them to measure the size of the paper. But also I'm not 100% sure the ring spacing is the same. OK if the holes are slotted.... I think...
I think the ring spacing was different. It was hard to get paper to fit once the 6 rings where introduced as their standard. For a while they elongated the holes to be more oval but now I don’t think they bother.
The ring spacing of a 4-ring pocket filofax is the same as that of the innermost 4 rings of a personal, if that helps. It was so pocket paper could be stored directly in a personal.
Could anyone please tell me whether the mini pens from Filofax, like the Barley pen, take a regular D1 mini pen refill, or do they require a proprietary refill from Filofax?
Sorry Sarah I think you might have asked this question last week! I'm not familiar with the d1 mini pen refills, have you for a link to them.
I bought a Filofax refill pack for mine when I bought the pen. The refills are very thin compared to the pen itself and the first time I replaced mine it was quite difficult to unscrew the pen, but ok now!
Lately I have been putting everything for my life into my personal-sized filo, except for notes and big projects. This means that when I go out (and I bring my personal filo everywhere, except for dog walks!), I always have everything with me. It's like a security blanket- I feel secure having everything with me, as though I will never face the 'Damn, I don't have that list/info with me today when I need it' situation. But, when I think about it, I hardly ever consult those lists and pages when I am out, besides my shopping list! So I am trying to work out if I can cope without all my lists, if I can slim my filo down and just have the essentials?
My question is: What do you guys actually use or look at in your Filofax when you are out and about?
I feel the same way exactly - I like to know i have *everything* with me, all the time. The difference is that I can honestly say that I use every section of my setup on pretty much a daily basis. I don't know if that's because I'm using a GTD setup or not. I carry very little 'info' around, just the lists and the diary (which together are enough to fill my Personal), plus my plastic cards, business cards and stamps. I often fond I need to refer to a list without warning, and I'm always grateful it's there. I'm not inclined to leave my Filofax at home - ever!
I thought exactly like you do and slimmed down to a compact and only carried 6 months of diary pages and essentials, like wallet-stuff and shopping lists. What happened was that I actually slammed headlong into situations like:
Dad: "Hey, what did you say the price was for that exhibition we're going to visit in May?"
Or...
Friend: "Are you free to go on a mini-vacation with me in November?" (eleven months ahead)
I also found myself looking for lists I knew I had left at home. My conclusion was that I do consult multiple sections in the binder without fully realizing it! So I'm back in personal size even though I like te compact a lot... I actually wish I could start using my compact Osterley again as I am ALSO toting around a big A5 for lecture/seminar notes/paper research/other university related stuff.
One step forward, two steps back.
Anyho! I'll try to answer your question:
I always look at the diaries I carry as they kinda "zoom in" and hold different sort of data. I also use my personal as a wallet so: card slots and plastic card holder inserts... Lists and to do:s are also referred to several times per day... Hm... I think the only section I don't really use is the "misc" tab that holds finances (and "private debts/loans" etc.) but that section is just a couple of pages thick! XD;
Just received personal Malden ochre here in US.....looks great!
Also, got some of FF's letter sized (8.5x11) white computer paper that is perforated and punched to separate into 3 personal sized pages after printing.
My question is how to use this given that all the templates I find online here and elsewhere are either set up as 2 personal pages on a sheet or just one.
Do I need to create my own 3 per page template in MS Word or ??
Something funny with your 11x8.5 inch paper... 3x95mm is greater than 11 inches... so they must reduce the width of a personal page to fit on to your US size paper?
Our templates are set up for the A4 computer paper which is big enough for 3x95mm = 285 mm A4=297mm x 210mm
Steve: On this side, we end up having 93mm width if we are trying to print 3 personal pages across.
I'm still waiting to hear back from Lloyd at Filofax USA, but both packages of laser Filo paper have had perforations that result in page sizes of 91, 93 and 95 mm, not uniform at all. In the meantime, I have simply become proficient printing on regular letter paper and cutting with my paper trimmer.
Mark: Get the "print to File" software from Filofax. It is fantastically useful.
Thanks for your suggestion, Alan....I was wondering about that software...
Only problem is that I have a MacBook at home with inkjet printer...and at work I have laptop with WinXP and color laser that can print 2 sided, but I'm not allowed to install any software without getting IT dept to authorize it and install it...and that's not easy to do....but I will look into it...
Other option is install software on MacBook using Parallels Desktop and Win7, but than will need to print to inkjet and print one side at a time....not optimal solution...
First time posting, since I've been enjoying this site from afar for a little over a month now...This is a little off the topic of paper, etc., but I'm taking you at your word on "free for all."
Our community has been inundated with viruses -- from the common cold, influenza, and even norovirus. I realize that only bleach can help with the norovirus, which makes it impossible to use on nice surfaces, but do any of you use anything to clean your filofaxes? I don't mean spot cleaning or conditioning the leather, but something the equivalent to a bleach-free wipe like Clorox handiwipes? I love my Finsbury A5 binder in raspberry, but I carry it with me everywhere I go and I'm always opening it up after shaking hands, etc.
What's a safe way to wipe down the leather Filofaxes without ruining the finish?
Oh, and while I'm at at...Do some people sell and ship custom inserts on nice paper or do people who want custom pages all print their own? I'm not sure I'm ready to print and punch my own pages. Maybe it's because I'm still new to the Filofax world.
Ha! I asked this last week! So many awesome inserts here on Philofaxy and wondered if anyone wanted to get into the print, punch and deliver business because I would gladly pay someone to print out my inserts of choice and mail them to me! Hint Hint
Hi folks. I could potentially handle printing, punching and delivering on demand. I actually love making my inserts and I've been pondering the viability of unleashing my own designed notepapers on the world. I've been too nervous to do so without a test group for feedback first. If anyone wants to discuss paper types, costing options and quality testing do send me an email and we can work out what's best and whether it is viable. Please note that I am absolutely not comfortable using Philofaxy templates without permission for this purpose. For this to be an option, permission from Philofaxy folks and adhering to any terms they may impose would be a must. I am also in the UK so shipping costs & time may unbalance the usefulness for U.S. folk. If anyone wants to discuss the possibilities, email me.
I'd just like to say that today's Free For all has been really enjoyable, the most amusing reply was David proposal to return to grotes, pecks and bushels.
Currently I'm waiting on an A5 purple Malden to fall into my open hands (aren't we all?) to be put to work as a study binder, but in the meantime I'm considering keeping a Flex filled with my study notes to be hole-punched at fitted into the A5 when I finally find one.
My question is: Can the paper on the A5 Flex tablet be pulled out of the pad, hole-punched and inserted into an A5 binder? It seems like a no-brainer to me - A5 is A5, right? - but I wanted to be perfectly sure...as the Flex will be my fifth Filo in use. *blush*
Here's a formatting tip for people printing documents to a personal sized (171x95mm) page, something I do regularly using Filofax's Print-to-File software: In your document settings in Word, set the paper size to "legal", which is US 8.5"x14". It is nearly the same aspect ratio as the personal size page. Printing out A4 or "letter" to the Personal page leaves a lot if white space. I often do this with textbook solutions manuals, which then fit nicely into a Personal, instead of having a heavy letter-size ring binder to carry.
However, would like to make sure I understand it properly.....
Do mean to set page size in Word to legal and then print on letter size paper or ???
Understand about not wanting lots of white space, but I was planning on setting margins to minimal amount and setting up 3 columns in Word on letter size paper setting....
When you use the Print to File software, it shrinks the Word page down to Personal size. P2F will print three pages on a single letter sized page and will also do duplex printing.
I have FF punch, but it is for A5 that I had some time ago...
Now, that I have the personal Malden, I realize that I need another punch to use with it....somewhow had assumed that I could adjust the A5 punch for this...
As I'm in US, I checked FF USA site and they are out of stock right now on personal punches. Can I use the Franklin Covey punch for this? Or some other readily available punch here in USA?
Would be great if I could just go get one at one of the stationery or office supply stores locally, but if needed, I can order one online....
Why are Filofaxes so addictive? all it took was seeing one vid on YT and I was ready to buy. So ready, that I've ordered 4, yes, 4 in eight days! So, what is it? Why are these darn things so addictive??
Does anyone have, or have experience of, the Graphic Zip binder? I'm considering it as an alternative to the Cuban (it's a lot cheaper!) after the Snow Debacle last week. Steve, do you know the ring size on the Graphic Zip?
ReplyDeleteHi David
DeleteIt's 23mm, likewise so is the Metropol Zip. The Cuban Zip is on offer at the moment on Filofax France for €54,50 plus shipping
http://www.filofax.fr/store/organiserdetails.asp?sizeId=3&rangeId=120&dsizeId=3
Steve
Shipping from France to UK for the Cuban would be €8
DeleteThanks Steve - great info. Not sure I can action right now (having to pay to re-stock my Hampstead took care of that!) but I'll see if it's still on offer in a week or two. Also, our forthcoming change of address would make it difficult to order before next week - but thanks, much appreciated!
DeleteHi David,
DeleteI got to handle a Graphic Zip in my local TK Maxx a few months ago. It's a lovely binder (especially in the grey colour) and is very compact looking for a zipped Filofax. It's much smaller in width than the Cuban Zip which is enormous and takes up a lot of space in a bag or briefcase. It also looked like it would be a sturdy, hard-wearing binder.
Ashlene
Hi Ashlene, I've always been impressed with the look of the Graphic. I might be tempted......thanks for your comments
DeleteI suppose one thing that put me off the Graphic Zip was the sheer size. I want a personal with 30mm rings, but at the normal size!
DeleteTrue, it's big...maybe smaller than the Cuban, though. I wouldn't buy one until I had been to Conduit Street and seen the Cuban (the Graphic being withdrawn now). Interesting thoughts though
DeleteSorry David - I meant the Cuban Zip! I think they should bring out some with 30mm rings for 'power users'!.
DeletePower user! That's a phrase I haven't heard for a long time. Perfect!
DeleteDavid, you have been so upset and dissatisfied with FF quality for so long (binders AND insert quality) that I wonder that you still buy from them. What's keeping you from switching to another brand?
DeleteI've taken my loyalty to them off the table and walked. I only needed a 2013 diary insert, but I refused to give them any more of my $$ while they continue to turn out shoddy product. My 2013 Diary/Planner is a Moleskine, and so far it is working well for my needs. Time will tell if I ever return to the fold.
I guess it's because I now have a system which works for me, which I can use consistently, and it involves the use of the Filofax. Otherwise, believe me, I'd be right behind you. I am thinking about it, though....
DeleteIt's not the diary that matters to me (I can get far better diaries elsewhere), it's the whole mechanism of task management which lies behind it, plus the fact that i can hold everything together in one place.
Anyway, I don't see any harm in holding FF to account for their abuse of the loyalty of those who invested in the latest round of 'dialogue'....
I sympathise.
David, three words: Franklin Covey Compact.
DeleteAnd several more words: Lots of zip models, well made, great 2PPD inserts, only slightly larger than a Cuban Zip, available used at very reasonable prices (and new too).
Forgot to mention, FC inserts take fountain pen ink just fine, no bleed and no feathering.
Deletehi Josh
DeleteAgreed. It's just the cost at the moment, but I feel it's nearly time to make a clean break with Filofax.......
Does anyone have a manual for the FC system which explains how it 'fits' with the books' philosophy?
Do the FC Compact inserts fit the FF ring mechanism? I know about the wider pages, but my TMI binder would take care of that......
David, I had an A5 red graphic zip and a) The top of the binder wore away very quickly and b) ended up chucking it out quickly when the ring mechanism didn't just gape, but went like the grand canyon. Utter waste of money!! My Cuban has been an utterly different kettle of fish, and I'd buy it again!! xx
DeleteDavid - you don't have to get the specific inserts for the FC folder - just get one and use your current inserts? Specially as you only use a diary and lined sheets?
DeleteButanben - thanks for that...very interesting!
DeleteAlison, I was thinking more in terms of getting a FC setup (of inserts and dividers) and inserting it into my TMI binder *if* my binder is wide enough to cope with the 'overlap'. Do you know the measurements of the FC compact inserts, in mm?
David, a late response: I have the book "10 Natural Laws of Successful Time and Life Management" by Hyrum Smith, the head of the Franklin Quest company. Written in the late 1980s or early 1990s it explains the theory of the system well. The actual use of the inserts is extremely intuitive and, in my mind, does not require much direction. The book talks extensively about honing your inner values and forming them into goals and actionable tasks and using your values to prioritize everything in your life. Quite readable. I bought my copy used for about $2 on Amazon.
DeleteFilofax personal and FC compact ring spacing is identical.
I intend to write up how I'm using the FC system as a blog post for Laurie at Plannerisms but I've not had time to finish it.
The pages are 4.25 inches wide, so just about 108mm.
I just bought a zipped leather Franklin Quest binder with 1.5 inch rings (38mm!!), used but in excellent condition, on ebay for $25 plus shipping. Not bad at all compared to prices for similar filofax binders.
Josh, thanks so much for taking the trouble to do that. It sounds as if the FC inserts will fit perfectly into my beautiful black leather TMI binder, and the TM inserts are 180 x 110 and punched the same as Filofax personal. On this basis I'm going to take the binder with me when we move and consider refilling it with FC inserts and dividers, which may in fact not happen until the end of the year as I'm currently all set for 2013, especially after the Snow Incident and complete re-stock of the Hampstead last week! But you've certainly given me something to think about.....thank you.
DeleteI would really like to try out a Franklin Covey planner, is there anyone here who is located in the US and would be willing to buy one for me and ship it? I think the shipping cost of nearly 60$ that FC wants me to pay is just ridiculous... If you'd be willing to help me, please contact me at sverri (at) sverri (dot) de
ReplyDeleteThanks!
They sell some on ebay that you can't get on the FC website in the UK. However, shipping is still high.
DeleteYes, that's what I thought.
DeleteI'm looking for a Boston or Ava binder and hole punch in Classic size. Very grateful for any tips!
There are a lot of the FC binders on sale now. Take a look at the Giada in Compact. Its the nicest leather one they carry and I believe they went from a regular price of $129 USD to sale price of $77.00.
DeleteThere are a number of them that Zip, some that snap and some that have a leather strap pass through a loop to hold it closed.
There are a number of leather binders as well as many non leather ones.
If you decide to look at the one I mentioned above, the Giada Italian leather---take a look at the one in Plum. Its gorgeous.
I'd like to suggest that we all encourage as many people as we can to go digital....then there will be even more binders for sale for us sensible folks!
DeleteI'd like a Franklin Covey with the larger rings - but sadly they sell virtually nothing in Compact size on the UK site - I just don't understand the total lack of choice? I'm guessing they aren't a very big operation over here - however I would be willing to wait if they only featured some nice ones and I had to wait for it to arrive with their next consignment!
DeleteMay be order from the US site and get it delivered to one of our friendly US Philofaxers and get them to post it on to you as a 'Gift' to reduce the import tax/duty
DeleteI believe they closed their entire Europe merchandising operation a couple of years ago, then re-instituted it when they realised people just weren't prepared to wait for stuff (or pay the carriage) from the US. I suspect it may all be a bit of a muddle now....
DeleteI bought the Veronica on sale from ebay, so it wasn't too much with the shipping. It arrived faster than inserts I ordered from FC UK. Very pleased with the binder. I like the Giada, but need bigger rings same with the Ava really.
DeleteThere are some on Amazon UK, but every things is in Ye Olde Inches!
DeleteSteve, that was my idea exactly. Maybe some nice Philofaxy reader would be willing to post an FC binder to me once I paid for it and had it delivered to them... Anyone? :)
DeleteInches are fine with me Steve - I can picture something in inches - in metric I have to go and check! Showing my age!
DeleteI have a FC Compact red soft leather binder with snap closure (not zipped) not being used. I think it has 1 inch dia rings (25.4mm). I bought it a few years ago and was thinking of using it again. So much so I actually bought the diary insert for this year! But I decided to stick with my Filofax. So it's going spare. I can check it out when I get home.
DeleteOh please do timmo55!
DeleteI will post some pics up on my (rather sparsley populated) blog page this evening. I am going to clear out my study and have loads of spare binders - Daytimer/FC/Filofax.....
DeleteSounds like you could do quite well - a virtual garage sale!
DeleteFC Canada is offering free shipping on orders over $75. Can you find the one you want on their website?
DeleteAlso, in Canada, we're stuck in measurement purgatory. Officially, we went metric 40+ years ago, but being next to the US, we must stay conversant in the antiquated system.
DeleteI'm campaigning for a return to grotes, pecks and bushels. Care to join?
DeleteAs long as the ale is available in Firkins and Kilderkins...
DeleteIn a previous life, I wrote the Weights and Measurements FAQ on rec.food.drink.beer
DeleteSounds good to me.....I'll take a Polypin of Hobgoblin......:)
DeleteActually, I rarely drink beer any more, but at one point, I had three personal-sized binders with ~800 pages of tasting notes. We had a basement flood, and they were on the bottom shelf of a bookcase and were destroyed.
DeleteAlan, were you offering to ship the binder and hole punch to me serving as my Canadian address? I'm not sure whether you were referring to me. Please do send me an email if you were! sverri (at) sverri (dot) de
DeleteThanks! :)
I'm new to posting on Philofaxy, but have been faithfully reading and enjoying this site since April of last year. Anke I live in Canada and would be willing to have you ship your purchase to me. I have checked the FC site and they have free shipping on orders over $75.00 within Canada.
DeleteElena, that's great! Can you please contact me via Email so we can figure out the details? Thank you so very much!
DeleteHi Anke, I've sent you an email so let me know if you don't receive it. Glad to help out :)
DeleteAwful weekend (weather wise) called for laying low in the house and spending a good portion of time on ebay researching Franklin Covey binders. There are some great deals. However, I pretty much suck at bidding because I lost out on 2 binders that I really really really wanted. Well actually I only wanted 1 of them and was outbid on both. And I even used one of those bidding services to bid for me. My bids were too low so I sorely misjudged what these binders would go for. About 45 seconds before the auction ended the highest bid was $5.50 so I thought my bid of $19.99 would get me the binder but someone outbid me by about $2, LOL. This happens to me all the time so I prefer to just buy something not bid on it. Don't have the time or patience to get into bidding wars. Anyway, it was fun and I did end up buying something but really can't get over the one that got away. It was similar to a binder I once owned and this one was unused and ridiculously cheap. I would have gladly paid way more for it than the winner did but didn't bid as such and therefore lost. Lessons learned!
DeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteare there any news from Paperworld regarding new Filofax range?
I don't remember where I read it (and google is not my friend today), but I think Filofax is not exhibiting their products at Paperworld this year.... I might be wrong, though!
DeleteOh, I didn`t know that. But you are probably right. I've just checked the list of exhibitors and Filofax is really not there. Suppose we will see Filofax at London fashion week but not at Paperworld anymore :o)
DeleteIt will be in the list later today, but I'm breaking ranks and giving this particular post a bit more than the usual publicity!
ReplyDeleteWe are loving this post in the 'Philofaxy' office this morning. Especially number 8.... Philofaxy hours would apply... mornings at the keyboard, afternoons spent relaxing by the pool, going for the occasional dip if it got too hot, with an ice cold beer to hand and may be champagne once a week to celebrate our increasing visitor figures....
http://thisbugslife.com/2013/01/29/if-filofax-appointed-me-overlord-for-a-day/
What would be on your top 10 list as 'Overlord' !!!
At the moment I'd settle for any kind of concrete response to any of the points raised at the November meeting.
DeleteFilofax. Redefines the phrase 'Kicked into the long grass'.
Disgruntled? Moi? I resent the disrespect shown to those who gave up their time and energy to engage in this. Fool me once - shame on you. Fool me twice.....
Never again.
Rome wasn't built in a day.....
DeleteI wasn't supervisor on that job......
DeleteSeriously, though, just how long do FF expect th good folks who invested their time and energy to wait for *any* kind of response at all? We haven't even had any indication that the points raised are even being progressed. "we'll get round to it". Yes....right....your whole history of abusing your customer relations says, you won't.
I'm not personally prepared to put up with it without saying what I believe to be the continuing truth - Filofax either don't care, or they do a very good impression of not caring.
Caring = action. Period.
Thanks for the mention Steve! I think they need an overlord at the moment!
DeleteDavid - I'm hoping the problem is one of communication not action!
DeleteThat's a nice idea, isn't it. I wish I could believe it. Unfortunately their track record precedes them. Personally, I think the sooner they are sold to a company that understands customer relations, which their prospective owners certainly seem to, the better. If I were FF employee right now I'd be worried about regime change, culture change, and an enforced confrontation with 21st century standards of customer care...
DeleteHas anyone seen a 4-ring Filofax before?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/mini-filofax-real-black-leather-/330864688422?pt=UK_BOI_Office_Office_Supplies_Stationery_ET&hash=item4d09127d26
Early pockets only had 4 rings... another Ebay Gotcha I suspect. Ask them to measure the size of the paper. But also I'm not 100% sure the ring spacing is the same. OK if the holes are slotted.... I think...
DeleteI have. Back in 1992 my first ever pocket Filofax had only 4 rings. I still have it but is currently in storage.
DeleteAh, next time you see it could you measure the spacing please, centre line to centre line of Rings 1-2 2-3 3-4 Thanks
DeleteSteve
I think the ring spacing was different. It was hard to get paper to fit once the 6 rings where introduced as their standard. For a while they elongated the holes to be more oval but now I don’t think they bother.
DeleteThe ring spacing of a 4-ring pocket filofax is the same as that of the innermost 4 rings of a personal, if that helps. It was so pocket paper could be stored directly in a personal.
DeleteAh thanks for that. It makes sense to use that spacing. It also means that someone with that size binder can punch the paper with a personal punch!
DeleteSteve
I think that Tracy (the Crazy Suburban Mom) has a 4 ring pocket.
DeleteCould anyone please tell me whether the mini pens from Filofax, like the Barley pen, take a regular D1 mini pen refill, or do they require a proprietary refill from Filofax?
ReplyDeleteThank you.
-Sarah
Sorry Sarah I think you might have asked this question last week! I'm not familiar with the d1 mini pen refills, have you for a link to them.
DeleteI bought a Filofax refill pack for mine when I bought the pen. The refills are very thin compared to the pen itself and the first time I replaced mine it was quite difficult to unscrew the pen, but ok now!
Hi Steve! Here is a link to a D1 refill from jet pens: http://www.jetpens.com/Platinum-BSP-100S-Ballpoint-Pen-Refill-D1-0.7-mm-Black-Ink/pd/1451
DeleteThe D1 refills are usually the ones that most multi-pens use also.
Hi Sarah
DeleteOK I've just done a scan of mine along side a ruler!
Picture
Thank you very much!
DeleteYes, filofax pen refills are definitely standard D1s. I use zebra ones - the ink is lovely and intense and black and they write very smoothly!
DeleteLately I have been putting everything for my life into my personal-sized filo, except for notes and big projects. This means that when I go out (and I bring my personal filo everywhere, except for dog walks!), I always have everything with me. It's like a security blanket- I feel secure having everything with me, as though I will never face the 'Damn, I don't have that list/info with me today when I need it' situation.
ReplyDeleteBut, when I think about it, I hardly ever consult those lists and pages when I am out, besides my shopping list! So I am trying to work out if I can cope without all my lists, if I can slim my filo down and just have the essentials?
My question is: What do you guys actually use or look at in your Filofax when you are out and about?
Thanks!!
hi Kate
DeleteI feel the same way exactly - I like to know i have *everything* with me, all the time. The difference is that I can honestly say that I use every section of my setup on pretty much a daily basis. I don't know if that's because I'm using a GTD setup or not. I carry very little 'info' around, just the lists and the diary (which together are enough to fill my Personal), plus my plastic cards, business cards and stamps. I often fond I need to refer to a list without warning, and I'm always grateful it's there. I'm not inclined to leave my Filofax at home - ever!
I thought exactly like you do and slimmed down to a compact and only carried 6 months of diary pages and essentials, like wallet-stuff and shopping lists. What happened was that I actually slammed headlong into situations like:
DeleteDad: "Hey, what did you say the price was for that exhibition we're going to visit in May?"
Or...
Friend: "Are you free to go on a mini-vacation with me in November?" (eleven months ahead)
I also found myself looking for lists I knew I had left at home. My conclusion was that I do consult multiple sections in the binder without fully realizing it! So I'm back in personal size even though I like te compact a lot... I actually wish I could start using my compact Osterley again as I am ALSO toting around a big A5 for lecture/seminar notes/paper research/other university related stuff.
One step forward, two steps back.
Anyho! I'll try to answer your question:
I always look at the diaries I carry as they kinda "zoom in" and hold different sort of data. I also use my personal as a wallet so: card slots and plastic card holder inserts...
Lists and to do:s are also referred to several times per day... Hm... I think the only section I don't really use is the "misc" tab that holds finances (and "private debts/loans" etc.) but that section is just a couple of pages thick! XD;
Just received personal Malden ochre here in US.....looks great!
ReplyDeleteAlso, got some of FF's letter sized (8.5x11) white computer paper that is perforated and punched to separate into 3 personal sized pages after printing.
My question is how to use this given that all the templates I find online here and elsewhere are either set up as 2 personal pages on a sheet or just one.
Do I need to create my own 3 per page template in MS Word or ??
Thanks for any advice!
Mark
First of all Mark, can you please measure the width of the three personal size pages on your 11 x 8.5 paper, are they all 95mm wide? Measure each one.
DeleteThere are some templates on our files page that are created for the computer paper, but the A4 variant.
Steve
Something funny with your 11x8.5 inch paper... 3x95mm is greater than 11 inches... so they must reduce the width of a personal page to fit on to your US size paper?
DeleteOur templates are set up for the A4 computer paper which is big enough for 3x95mm = 285 mm A4=297mm x 210mm
Steve
Steve: On this side, we end up having 93mm width if we are trying to print 3 personal pages across.
DeleteI'm still waiting to hear back from Lloyd at Filofax USA, but both packages of laser Filo paper have had perforations that result in page sizes of 91, 93 and 95 mm, not uniform at all. In the meantime, I have simply become proficient printing on regular letter paper and cutting with my paper trimmer.
Mark: Get the "print to File" software from Filofax. It is fantastically useful.
Thanks for your suggestion, Alan....I was wondering about that software...
DeleteOnly problem is that I have a MacBook at home with inkjet printer...and at work I have laptop with WinXP and color laser that can print 2 sided, but I'm not allowed to install any software without getting IT dept to authorize it and install it...and that's not easy to do....but I will look into it...
Other option is install software on MacBook using Parallels Desktop and Win7, but than will need to print to inkjet and print one side at a time....not optimal solution...
Oh well, never easy it seems....
Mark
Thanks for all your help, Steve!
ReplyDeleteAt off-site meeting today, so, can't measure now, but as I recall, two page strips are same width, and one is narrower...
I will provide data by tomorrow...
Meanwhile, I will check the A4 template and try to adjust it for US letter dimensions...
First time posting, since I've been enjoying this site from afar for a little over a month now...This is a little off the topic of paper, etc., but I'm taking you at your word on "free for all."
ReplyDeleteOur community has been inundated with viruses -- from the common cold, influenza, and even norovirus. I realize that only bleach can help with the norovirus, which makes it impossible to use on nice surfaces, but do any of you use anything to clean your filofaxes? I don't mean spot cleaning or conditioning the leather, but something the equivalent to a bleach-free wipe like Clorox handiwipes? I love my Finsbury A5 binder in raspberry, but I carry it with me everywhere I go and I'm always opening it up after shaking hands, etc.
What's a safe way to wipe down the leather Filofaxes without ruining the finish?
By the way, my name is Mary...I guess even though I logged in on Google, it doesn't post my name. Thanks for your help!
DeleteHi Mary
DeleteIf you edit your public profile on Google your name should then appear!
Wiping the leather. How about baby wipes? Shouldn't harm the leather and you can dispose of them easily after use.
Steve
Oh, and while I'm at at...Do some people sell and ship custom inserts on nice paper or do people who want custom pages all print their own? I'm not sure I'm ready to print and punch my own pages. Maybe it's because I'm still new to the Filofax world.
ReplyDeleteThanks again,
Mary
Welcome, Mary...
DeleteI'd also be interested to know if any 3rd party sources for punched paper inserts already printed...in USA would be great too.
In meantime, per my earlier post I'm in midst of trying to print some inserts myself...
Mark
Day Runner and Day Timer inserts fit Filofax Personal. Franklin covey "Compact" have the same hole spacing, but are an extra half inch wider.
DeleteThanks for the info, Alan...great to know....
DeleteHa! I asked this last week! So many awesome inserts here on Philofaxy and wondered if anyone wanted to get into the print, punch and deliver business because I would gladly pay someone to print out my inserts of choice and mail them to me! Hint Hint
DeleteHi folks. I could potentially handle printing, punching and delivering on demand. I actually love making my inserts and I've been pondering the viability of unleashing my own designed notepapers on the world. I've been too nervous to do so without a test group for feedback first. If anyone wants to discuss paper types, costing options and quality testing do send me an email and we can work out what's best and whether it is viable. Please note that I am absolutely not comfortable using Philofaxy templates without permission for this purpose. For this to be an option, permission from Philofaxy folks and adhering to any terms they may impose would be a must. I am also in the UK so shipping costs & time may unbalance the usefulness for U.S. folk. If anyone wants to discuss the possibilities, email me.
DeleteI'd just like to say that today's Free For all has been really enjoyable, the most amusing reply was David proposal to return to grotes, pecks and bushels.
ReplyDeleteYou're in then....?
DeleteAnd polypins and firkins.
Lovely.........
Count me in too, David...
DeleteAlthough I don't know a polyfin from a firkin...but it sounds good to me...
;-)
Mark
Oops, meant to say a polypin, not polyfin....
DeleteGuess I don't know a polypin from a polyfin either....
;-)
Have a question about the Flex...
ReplyDeleteCurrently I'm waiting on an A5 purple Malden to fall into my open hands (aren't we all?) to be put to work as a study binder, but in the meantime I'm considering keeping a Flex filled with my study notes to be hole-punched at fitted into the A5 when I finally find one.
My question is: Can the paper on the A5 Flex tablet be pulled out of the pad, hole-punched and inserted into an A5 binder? It seems like a no-brainer to me - A5 is A5, right? - but I wanted to be perfectly sure...as the Flex will be my fifth Filo in use. *blush*
Here's a formatting tip for people printing documents to a personal sized (171x95mm) page, something I do regularly using Filofax's Print-to-File software: In your document settings in Word, set the paper size to "legal", which is US 8.5"x14". It is nearly the same aspect ratio as the personal size page. Printing out A4 or "letter" to the Personal page leaves a lot if white space. I often do this with textbook solutions manuals, which then fit nicely into a Personal, instead of having a heavy letter-size ring binder to carry.
ReplyDeleteAlan,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the suggestion....
However, would like to make sure I understand it properly.....
Do mean to set page size in Word to legal and then print on letter size paper or ???
Understand about not wanting lots of white space, but I was planning on setting margins to minimal amount and setting up 3 columns in Word on letter size paper setting....
When you use the Print to File software, it shrinks the Word page down to Personal size. P2F will print three pages on a single letter sized page and will also do duplex printing.
DeleteIf it's not too late to ask question....
ReplyDeleteI have FF punch, but it is for A5 that I had some time ago...
Now, that I have the personal Malden, I realize that I need another punch to use with it....somewhow had assumed that I could adjust the A5 punch for this...
As I'm in US, I checked FF USA site and they are out of stock right now on personal punches. Can I use the Franklin Covey punch for this? Or some other readily available punch here in USA?
Would be great if I could just go get one at one of the stationery or office supply stores locally, but if needed, I can order one online....
Thanks for any suggestions!
Mark
The FC punch is vastly superior to the FF punch - hold spacing is the same.
DeleteThanks for your input, Alan...
DeleteWill see about getting one...
As follow-up to my post yesterday, I measured the width of the 3 personal strips on the US letter size sheet.
ReplyDeleteOne is 95mm, and the other two are 92mm....
Thanks!
Mark
I've had it confirmed, the Templates on the files page for the FF Computer paper are set up for the A4 variety.
DeleteBut it's not difficult to set up your own template with a table with cells the right size, even if they aren't even sizes
Steve
Thanks, Steve....
DeleteStarted setting up my own template the other day...hope to finish it soon....
Mark
Alan,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your additional info regarding use of FF Print to File software....think I understand now...
Mark
Why are Filofaxes so addictive? all it took was seeing one vid on YT and I was ready to buy. So ready, that I've ordered 4, yes, 4 in eight days! So, what is it? Why are these darn things so addictive??
ReplyDelete