Rolling joints, blunts, backwoods, and other creations is an art performed by the best rolling papers. Pulling off trick joints takes skill and precision, and some people have done so with amazing flare. Quality weed is essential to get an even burn and good airflow in a joint or blunt, but there’s another vital component.
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When it comes to tips to roll the best joints, start with the most ideal medium possible: clean-burning papers.
There are a few types of papers and wraps used to roll up quality, ground ganja. When shopping for papers, always check whether the company uses organic or otherwise “clean” ingredients. The rolling supplies someone chooses might come down to personal preference, health impact, and more.
What are rolling papers made of?
Rolling papers consist of thin rectangular sheets and a glue strip on one side. The rectangles might be made of hemp, rice, flax, and more. Each type of paper has its own draw, from creating smoother smoke to tastier tokes.
Hemp papers
Many consumers opt for hemp papers since they are derivatives of the cannabis plant. This option is also more sustainable for the trees, as they are created from a byproduct of the hemp industry. Some believe these rolling papers could enhance the flavor of the weed rather than detract from or cover it.
Rice papers
Rice rolling papers are preferred over wood pulp papers because they create less ash. This could translate to cleaner burns and less smoke flavor.
Flax papers
Those who like flax rolling papers value a slower burn rate. This option is also believed to be flavorless, meaning more of the natural strain terpene profile rather than paper taste during the sesh.
Cellulose papers
Clear, plastic-ey cellulose papers may feel unsustainable. They are actually the most environmentally friendly option from the standpoint of chemicals. Each of these rolling papers uses gum arabic glue–except the cellulose version.
Bamboo papers
Bamboo rolling papers are said to create a smooth smoke and take a hot minute to burn. The stalks also grow quickly, almost invasively in some areas, which makes the papers easy to produce.
Wood pulp papers
Traditional paper rolling paper, made from wood pulp, is said to burn the fastest and create the most ash. The draw to this option is availability. They are sold in most corner stores and gas stations and are easy to use. Beginners might find a thicker, wood pulp rolling paper easier to roll than thin-as-sin rice paper.
The glue
Rolling papers feature a strip of glue on one side that is traditionally wet with the mouth and rolled onto the other side of the paper, closing the joint. This is usually 100 percent all-natural gum arabic, also called acacia gum. Though research is rarely cited or available, all paper companies claim that gum arabic is safe to inhale. However, like most things, experts warn that too much of anything, even natural acacia gum, could prove harmful.
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There are many reasons to all types of rolling papers, but the best choice lies in the eye of the consumer.
Rolling papers are only as good as their ingredients
Much like a joint is only as good as the weed inside, the ingredients of rolling papers make or break the smoke. The wrap or paper can translate to smooth or harsh smoke, pure or muddled flavor. Consumers put time into selecting their strain, perhaps the same should go into papers.
