Here’s How to Roll a Joint: Step-by-Step

By: Sakura Yamamoto-Tarpin

In recent years cannabis culture has exploded into a complex and multifaceted entity of seemingly infinite elements.

Between the myriad selection of edibles, oils, pipes, bongs, vaporizers and blunts (which branch off into even more variations of style and preference), the iconic but humble joint may have taken a bit of a backseat to sparklier newcomers, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost its place in the cannabis world.

Today we’ll be bringing the spotlight back onto this reliable classic by breaking down how to roll a joint in just a few easy steps.

What is a joint?

The joint is perhaps one of the most ubiquitous symbols of marijuana consumption. It conjures images of times past: barefoot walks in the grass, swaying to live music, perhaps lazy sun-drenched Sunday mornings spent in bed.

What has contributed to its longstanding popularity is largely due to its simplicity; it’s just weed packed into rolling paper, enjoyed via smoking.

A point of distinction here: many people conflate joints with spliffs, which are traditionally a mix of cannabis and tobacco (although lately there are many other lovely dried herbs to choose from for those who prefer not to consume nicotine). A classic joint, however, consists of just marijuana.

The art of rolling a joint is still a valuable and relatively easy-to-learn skill for anyone who considers themselves a marijuana enthusiast.

How to roll a joint step by step

In order to prepare your joint you will need:

-A half gram to a gram of marijuana strain of your choice
-Rolling papers
Tip: There are tons of papers to choose from. Longer ones are easier to start with, and hemp is a nice option for a smooth burn; however, regular cigarette papers work just fine.

-Cardstock or a piece of thick paper
-Optional (but helpful): herb grinder
Optional (but helpful): long thin object such as a pen, makeup brush, or takeout chopstick

Prepare Your Mixture

Start by breaking down the bud. You’ll want it to be an even consistency, so remove any stems or chunky pieces.

The use of a grinder will make things easier and result in a nice fine shake. Keep in mind that a stickier strain might require you to break down any stubborn clumps that remain by hand.

Otherwise, the old school method is to tear it up using your fingers or a pair of scissors. Work over a sheet of paper, plate, or tray to help see what you’re doing and catch any fallout.

Make the Filter

Though optional, preparing a filter (also known as a roach, crutch, or tip) prevents your joint from collapsing and makes it easier to smoke it down to completion without burning your fingers.

Some papers come with filters, or you can purchase them on their own at any smoke shop.

Just as easy and effective is the DIY option, which is to make your own filter out of a piece of thick paper or cardstock. The packaging on your rolling papers works just fine for this in a pinch.

Cut a small piece, about ¼ inch by ¾ inch. This isn’t an exact science by any means, so don’t stress the measurements. Roll it up into a small cylindrical filter shape.

Fill It

Start with a sheet of rolling paper, with the adhesive side facing up and towards you.

Place the filter on the left end and distribute the broken down cannabis onto the paper.

An even fill will result in a straight joint. Cone-shaped Js, which start thin at the filter and expand out slightly are easier to smoke but might be tricky to finesse for the beginner. Play around with what works for you here.

Roll it

Now for the challenging part: take the bottom (non-adhesive) part of the paper, and bring it up to meet the adhesive side.

Roll the joint between your fingers until you feel it taking shape. Starting at the filter end is much easier for keeping everything together.

You can wet the glue filter-side first, wrapping the paper around gently but firmly as you go along.

Pack It

You’ll want the cannabis to fill the joint in a nice even pack; not too loose (smoky, burns too fast), but not too tight (difficult to hit).

Tap the filter end against a hard surface to get the shakes to settle, and if you have a pen or similar object use it to gently push down through the open end until it’s firmly and evenly filled. Twist off to seal, and you have just rolled your first joint!

Spark Up & Enjoy

As you hone your skill, you’ll find your own technique and variation that works for you. For now, sit back, light up, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Sakura Yamamoto-Tarpin is a writer who focuses on wellness, spirituality, and personal development.