Rolling a joint can be simple, surprisingly technical or somewhere in between. In this P37 collaboration, Josie and Esper put several popular joint-rolling methods to the test using Cherrylicious flower.
They start with the easiest option—a pre-rolled cone—before experimenting with two different rolling machines. Finally, they return to the method they know best and demonstrate how they each roll a joint by hand.
The result is an honest, entertaining look at four different ways to roll a joint, including what worked, what did not and which method they would use again.
What You Need to Roll a Joint
Before getting started, gather your basic supplies:
- Cannabis flower
- A grinder
- Rolling papers or pre-rolled cones
- Filter tips
- A packing stick, pencil or similar tool
- A clean rolling tray
- A lighter
Esper prefers using a grinder because it creates a more consistent texture and makes the flower easier to distribute. Both Josie and Esper also prefer rolling with a filter tip, which provides structure and helps prevent loose flower from reaching your mouth.
Method 1: Filling a Pre-Rolled Cone
Pre-rolled cones are one of the easiest options for beginners because the paper and filter are already formed. Instead of shaping and sealing the paper yourself, you simply fill and pack the cone.
How to Fill a Pre-Rolled Cone
- Grind the flower to an even consistency.
- Scoop or pour a small amount into the cone.
- Gently pack the flower with the included packing stick.
- Continue adding flower in small layers.
- Check that the flower is evenly distributed.
- Leave a small amount of paper at the top.
- Twist the end to close the cone.
The key is to avoid packing the cone too tightly. An overly compressed cone can restrict airflow, while a cone that is too loose may burn unevenly.
Josie recommends lightly rolling the filled cone between your fingers or palms if one area feels too firm. This helps redistribute the flower without crushing it.
Their Verdict
The cone was the easiest and most reliable method they tested. It was quick, familiar and produced an evenly shaped joint without requiring advanced rolling skills.
For beginners learning how to roll a joint, pre-rolled cones are an approachable place to start.
Method 2: Using a Traditional Rolling Machine
The first machine Josie and Esper tested was a traditional cigarette-style roller. This tool uses two rotating cylinders to shape the flower and pull the rolling paper around it.
Unlike a hand-rolled cone, the finished joint has a straight, cigarette-like shape.
How a Traditional Rolling Machine Works
- Open the rollers and place the filter tip at one end.
- Add ground flower evenly across the machine.
- Close the rollers.
- Rotate the cylinders toward yourself to shape the flower.
- Insert the rolling paper with the adhesive strip facing you.
- Rotate the machine until most of the paper is pulled through.
- Moisten the adhesive strip.
- Continue rotating until the paper is fully wrapped.
- Open the machine and remove the finished joint.
Josie and Esper found that the amount of flower mattered. Too little resulted in a very thin joint, while uneven placement caused wrinkles or bends in the paper.
Their Verdict
Although there was a learning curve, the traditional rolling machine produced a smokeable joint. The finished product was thinner and straighter than their usual hand-rolled cones, but the machine was relatively compact and easy to understand once they figured out the process.
This option may work well for someone who wants consistent, cigarette-style joints but does not feel comfortable rolling by hand.
Method 3: Testing a Larger Box-Style Rolling Machine
The second rolling device was more complicated. The larger machine included a chamber intended to hold, shape and wrap the flower.
In theory, the device offered a convenient way to roll a larger joint. In practice, Josie and Esper struggled to determine how much flower to use, when to insert the paper and how to seal it properly.
Too much flower prevented the machine from closing. Too little created a loose joint with poor airflow. Some flower also escaped during the process.
After several attempts and some troubleshooting, they managed to form a smokeable joint—but it required extra packing and adjustment by hand.
Their Verdict
This was their least favorite method.
Although the machine held the flower and helped shape it, it was more complicated than simply filling a cone or learning to roll by hand. Josie and Esper agreed that someone experienced with the device might get better results, but it was not beginner-friendly during their first attempt.
Their ratings were approximately two to four out of 10.
Method 4: Rolling a Joint by Hand
After testing the machines, Josie and Esper returned to their preferred method: hand rolling.
They both use rolling papers and filter tips, but their individual processes are slightly different.
Josie’s Hand-Rolling Method
Josie begins by forming the paper into a cone before adding the flower.
- Fold or roll the filter tip.
- Position the filter at one end of the paper.
- Wrap the paper around a packing stick to create a cone shape.
- Seal the paper.
- Allow the paper to dry with the packing stick still inside.
- Add ground flower in small amounts.
- Pack each layer gently.
- Twist the top when finished.
Creating the empty cone first gives Josie a defined shape to work with. Keeping the packing stick inside while the paper dries prevents the cone from collapsing.
Esper’s Hand-Rolling Method
Esper adds some flower before sealing the paper.
- Place the filter near the bottom edge of the rolling paper.
- Add a small amount of ground flower.
- Use your fingers to distribute and shape the flower.
- Gently roll the paper back and forth to form a cone.
- Tuck the lower edge of the paper around the flower.
- Roll upward and seal the adhesive strip.
- Add more flower if needed.
- Pack and finish the top.
Esper prefers seeing how the flower sits inside the paper before committing to the final shape. She uses her fingers to keep the paper tight near the filter and gradually forms the wider end of the cone.
Which Joint-Rolling Method Is Best?
The best way to roll a joint depends on your experience, tools and preferred shape.
Best for Beginners: Pre-Rolled Cones
Pre-rolled cones require the least amount of technique. You only need to fill, pack and twist the top.
Best Machine: Traditional Rolling Machine
The smaller roller was easier to operate and produced a more consistent result than the larger box-style device.
Best for Control: Hand Rolling
Hand rolling takes practice, but it gives you more control over the size, shape, airflow and amount of flower used.
Josie and Esper both noted that their early joints were not perfect. Like riding a bike, rolling becomes easier with repetition. The most important thing is learning how tightly to pack the flower and how to maintain an even shape.
Tips for a Better-Rolled Joint
Keep these tips in mind when practicing:
- Grind the flower evenly.
- Avoid turning it into a fine powder.
- Use a filter for structure and airflow.
- Add flower gradually instead of overfilling.
- Keep the area near the filter slightly tighter.
- Do not compress the flower too firmly.
- Allow freshly sealed papers to dry before handling them heavily.
- Store flower properly to prevent it from becoming overly dry.
- Light the end evenly to encourage a consistent burn.
An uneven burn is not always caused by the rolling technique. Wind, lighting and moisture can also affect how a joint burns.
Final Thoughts
After testing four different joint-rolling methods, Josie and Esper found that the simplest options were the most dependable.
Pre-rolled cones offered the easiest experience, while hand rolling provided the greatest control. The traditional rolling machine worked after some practice, but the larger machine required more troubleshooting than either of them expected.
No matter which method you choose, start with quality flower, take your time and expect your technique to improve with practice.
Watch the full P37 video to see Josie and Esper test each rolling method, compare their results and share their personal approaches to rolling a joint.
For adults 21 and older. Consume responsibly. Follow all applicable state and local laws. Do not drive or operate machinery while impaired. Keep cannabis products away from children and pets.
