A clear, beginner-friendly guide to rolling a joint without tobacco, with tips for a neat, even result.
Before you start
Rolling gets easier with practice, and your first few attempts may be untidy. That is normal. In the Netherlands you cannot smoke tobacco indoors, so a pure joint made only from cannabis is common in coffeeshops. If you would rather not roll, most shops sell pre-rolled joints, and staff will often help.
What you need
- Rolling papers of your preferred size.
- A filter tip, also called a crutch. A small piece of stiff card works too.
- Ground cannabis. A grinder makes it much easier, and staff may lend one.
- A flat surface, such as a table or a tray.
The steps
- Grind your cannabis. Aim for a fluffy, even texture, not powder.
- Make the filter. Fold a strip of card into a small zigzag or roll it into a tube, and place it at one end of the paper.
- Add the cannabis. Spread it evenly along the paper, a little thinner near the filter.
- Shape it. Pinch and roll the paper between your fingers to form a cylinder.
- Tuck and roll. Tuck the edge with the glue strip around the cannabis and roll it forward.
- Seal. Lick the glue strip lightly and press it closed.
- Pack. Tap the open end down gently, add a little more cannabis if needed, and twist the tip closed.
Common problems
- Too loose. It burns fast and unevenly. Pack it a little more firmly.
- Too tight. It is hard to draw on. Loosen the packing.
- Canoeing. One side burns faster. Roll more evenly next time.
Tips
- Start with a small amount and share with friends.
- Do not lick the paper too much.
- Practise with a bit of tea or herbs first if you prefer.
- Keep it away from wind when lighting.
Where to smoke it
Smoke in the coffeeshop or on its terrace, not on the street where it is banned. See smoking in public.