I do use notebooks for my planners. The small ones are just too small for how I work on projects and keep notes. I don't write down UFO projects. They are already in my head and packed in the bin. Easy to track since there are only 2 UFO projects.
There is one notebook with all the machine embroidery quilts. I make note of thread colors used and ideas for the label. Another notebook has the Accuquilt projects with patterns and fabric swatches on a swatch sheet.
My current project is in a separate notebook that I can take with me. It has the pattern, special rulers, and the fabric swatch sheet. The pattern picture slides in the front cover with the pattern in sheet protectors. It's 16 pages long with 14 different fabrics so it has to stay organized. I work right from the notebook and note when a section is done.
Hope that helps!