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Cool tools really work.
A cool tool can be any book, gadget, software, video, map, hardware, material, or website that is tried and true. All reviews on this site are written by readers who have actually used the tool and others like it. Items can be either old or new as long as they are wonderful. We post things we like and ignore the rest. Suggestions for tools much better than what is recommended here are always wanted.
MD Notebook [A5] — I’ve never kept a consistent journal or diary, but this year I’m trying out some morning pages, and I’m loving the weight of this notebook, the smoothness of the paper, and the fact that it always lies flat.
Olympus AF-1 Camera — I pulled this camera out of my storage box last summer; it belonged to my grandpa. Normally, I don’t love point-and-shoots and prefer more control while shooting, but it’s actually been quite liberating to shoot with. It’s got a great built-in flash, and it’s lightweight, which makes it great for travel or pocketing for a night out.
Hinomoto Konbu Bag — I thrifted this bag in Tokyo and have since fallen completely in love. It’s functional, durable, has no external branding, and has the most satisfying zip.
DIGITAL
Only 8 — a brilliant website about Barcelona streets and who they’re named after.
Never Too Small — A YouTube channel featuring beautifully thought-out apartments, houses, cabins, all roughly under 60 m² (646 ft²). It’s an excellent source of inspiration for interior design and architecture, and covers spatial problem-solving. It’s also fascinating to observe the distinctive ways in which individuals decorate their homes in cities across the globe.
INVISIBLE
“Coming back — so many pathways through the spring grass.” — Yosa Buson
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12/18/25
