Mastering the Art of Rolling
Rolling the perfect joint is a craft. The way you roll affects everything from burn quality to airflow, and once you get it right, it enhances the entire smoking experience. Even if you’re using top-tier rolling papers like RAW, VIBES, or Elements, knowing how to roll properly ensures you get the most out of your session.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about rolling joints, from choosing the right papers to mastering classic and advanced techniques. Don’t worry we have guides for beginners and go all the way to those who want a little bit more challenge.
Let’s get started with the basics.
Understanding the Basics of Rolling a Joint
What Makes a Perfect Joint?
A well-rolled joint should be:
- Evenly packed – No loose spots or dense areas that disrupt the burn.
- Slow-burning – No canoeing (when one side burns faster than the other).
- Smooth to draw – Not too tight or too loose for ideal airflow.
Choosing the Right Rolling Paper
The type of paper you use matters more than you think. Different materials influence burn speed, taste, and rolling ease.
Common Rolling Paper Materials:
- Hemp Papers: Slow-burning, slightly textured, and eco-friendly. Popular brands include RAW and VIBES.
- Rice Papers: Ultra-thin, clean-burning, and flavor-neutral. A top choice is Elements.
- Flax & Wood Pulp Papers: Medium thickness, easy to roll, and widely used. Smoking Papers is a popular brand in this category.
Choosing the right rolling paper for your style makes all the difference. If you need help selecting one, check out our Rolling Paper Buying Guide.
Essential Joint Rolling Accessories
A great joint is only as good as the tools you use. If you want a flawless roll, having the right accessories can make all the difference.
Must-Have Rolling Accessories:
- Grinders: Ensures even herb consistency for a smooth burn.
- Rolling Trays: Keeps your rolling process organized and mess-free.
- Filters/Tips: Helps with airflow and prevents herb from getting in your mouth. (Browse Filter Tips).
Rolling Techniques Every Smoker Should Master
1. The Classic Joint (Beginner-Friendly)
Why It’s Popular: The simplest, most widely used rolling style—ideal for beginners.
How to Roll It:
- Grind your herb to an even consistency.
- Place a filter tip at one end.
- Distribute the herb evenly along the rolling paper.
- Pinch the paper into a cylinder and roll it into shape.
- Lick the gumline and seal it.
- Pack the tip for an even burn and twist the end.
This is the go-to method for most smokers and is perfect for first-time rollers.
Check out this Youtube Tutorial by RAW on how to do The Classic Joint. (<—If Age restricted click the text)
2. The Cone (For a Smoother Burn)
Why Smokers Love It: The cone shape allows for a slower burn at the beginning, intensifying as you go.
Rolling Technique:
- Similar to the classic joint, but wider at the top and thinner at the filter.
- Use a pen or packer to shape the cone before sealing.
This style is ideal for those who prefer an even, controlled burn.
Check out Hotbox’s Video Tutorial on how to do The Cone. (<—If Age restricted click the text)
Advanced Rolling Techniques for Those Who Want to Up Their Game
If you’ve mastered the classic joint and cone, it’s time to take things up a notch. These advanced rolling techniques not only look impressive but also enhance the smoking experience in different ways.
3. The Backroll (Inside-Out Rolling Technique)
Why It’s Unique: Uses less paper, leading to a cleaner taste with minimal ash.
How to Roll It:
- Flip your rolling paper inside out, with the gumline facing downward.
- Distribute the herb evenly and roll like a standard joint, but tuck the non-gummed side in first.
- Lick and seal, then carefully burn off the excess paper for a seamless finish.
This technique is best for smokers who want the purest taste with less paper burn.
Another RAW tutorial on how to do The Backroll. (<—If Age restricted click the text)
4. The Cross Joint (Made Famous by Pineapple Express)
Why It’s Popular: A fun, novelty roll that burns from three ends at once.
How to Roll It:
- Roll a classic joint as the main base.
- Roll a thinner second joint and poke a hole through the center of the base joint.
- Insert the thin joint horizontally, sealing both ends with rolling paper glue.
Best for group sessions and experienced rollers who want a challenge.
Check out Vice’s Video Tutorial on how to do The Cross Joint. (<—If Age restricted click the text)
5. The Tulip (For the Slowest Burn)
Why It’s a Favorite: Packed with extra herb, it burns extremely slow while delivering huge hits.
How to Roll It:
- Roll a cone-shaped paper separately.
- Create a pouch from a second rolling paper by folding it into a tulip shape.
- Attach the cone to the tulip pouch with rolling paper glue or an extra strip of paper.
This method is best for special occasions and smokers who enjoy big sessions.
Another Guide from Vice on how to do The Tulip. (<—If Age restricted click the text)
Common Rolling Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even experienced smokers mess up sometimes. Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes:
- Uneven Burns (Canoeing) – Happens when one side burns faster than the other.
- Fix: Distribute herb evenly and roll tightly but not too tight.
- Loose Rolls (Too Much Airflow, Weak Draw) – If your joint feels too airy, it’s not packed correctly.
- Fix: Use a grinder for even herb texture and pack slightly tighter before sealing.
- Overpacking (Impossible to Draw From) – Too much herb affects airflow.
- Fix: Don’t overload the joint—leave room for proper airflow.
Need more pro tips? Check out Rolling Like a Pro: Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them.
The Cultural Influence of Rolling Techniques
Rolling styles vary worldwide, reflecting different smoking cultures:
Amsterdam (Spliff Culture) – Many European smokers mix tobacco with herb for a slower burn and smoother drag.
U.S. (Pure Herb Joints) – American smokers usually prefer 100% herb with no tobacco.
Jamaica (Big Rolls, Loose Pack) – Traditional Jamaican joints tend to be thicker and looser for easy hits.
Perfecting Your Roll – Final Tips
Rolling for Different Situations
- Solo Sessions: Stick to thin, slow-burning papers like rice or hemp.
- On-the-Go: Pre-rolled cones save time and ensure a perfect roll every time.
- Group Smoke: Tulips, cross joints, and king-size rolls keep things fun.
The Role of Moisture & Storage
- Humidity matters – If your rolling papers are too dry, they may crack when rolling.
- Proper storage: Keep your papers sealed in a cool, dry place to maintain flexibility.
Where to Buy the Best Rolling Papers & Accessories in Thailand
Looking for high-quality rolling papers and accessories? If you need hemp, rice, or ultra-thin papers, Thailand has plenty of great options.
One of the best places to buy rolling papers in Thailand is RollingPaperThailand, where you’ll find:
- RAW Rolling Papers – Unbleached, all-natural fibers for a clean taste.
- VIBES Rolling Papers – Slow-burning, high-quality papers.
- Elements Rolling Papers – Ultra-thin rice papers for a pure experience.
- Smoking Papers – Classic European brand with eco-friendly production.
- Mascotte Rolling Papers – Premium Dutch rolling papers designed for smooth, even burns.
For more details why these are our Top 5 Recommended brands of RollingPaperThailand, check out our full blog.
Final Thoughts
Rolling a perfect joint is a skill every smoker should master. Whether you prefer a classic joint, a cone, or an advanced roll, choosing the right papers and accessories makes all the difference.
Explore Thailand’s best rolling paper brands and level up your sessions with RollingPaperThailand.