Rolling a solid filter, or crutch, is the perfect start to a good joint. A good joint filter gives you a solid foundation to roll your rolling paper around, making it easier to roll a good cylindrical joint.

Although rolling a good filter isn't hard, it does take some practice to get it just right.

That's why we'll tell you everything you need to know about filters and how to roll different ones so you always have a couple of techniques under your belt.

Let's dive right in!

The Benefits of Using a Filter in a Joint 

A filter, or filter tip, is a cylindrical piece, often made of cardboard or rolled paper, that is added to the end of a joint. It can provide structural support, making it easier to roll a perfect joint, and adds space between the burning herbs and your lips.

Filters also give you better airflow, allowing for a smoother, more controlled draw and preventing ashes from entering your mouth. Plus, it's easier to smoke a whole rolled joint with a filter acting as a mouthpiece so you can smoke all your herbs down to the filter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rolling a Filter

To roll a filter, you'll first need your materials. If you don't have special paper filter booklets, you can use any kind of thick paper or thin cardboard, like cardstock, index cards, or business cards, or the cardboard from a rolling paper pack. 

Start by cutting a strip from your chosen material. For paper, cardboard, business cards, or manila folders, aim for a strip about 1.5 to 2 inches long and 0.5 to 0.75 inches wide. Then, fold the strip in half, forming a crease at the center. Unfold it, then fold each end inward towards the center as an accordion, creating a "W" shape. This provides additional layers for structural support and acts as an ash catcher.

With the "W" shape formed, roll the strip tightly into a compact cylinder. Ensure that the "W" pattern is on the inside, facing the center of the cylinder. Once rolled, place it at the end of the joint you're rolling, leaving a bit sticking out. Roll the joint with the filter in place, and after sealing your joint, push the filter inside to finish packing the herbs.

Filter Rolling Tips

There's some skill needed to roll a good joint. Here are a few tips to get you there faster:

• High-Quality Rolling Papers: The quality of your filter is directly influenced by the material you use. Choose durable papers that won't compromise the integrity of your filter or your joint.
• Roll it Tight, But Not Too Tight: Roll your filter tight enough to maintain its shape and structural integrity, but avoid overdoing it. If you roll it too tight, you might restrict airflow, leading to a hard smoking experience.
• Distribute the Herb Evenly: When distributing the herb throughout the roll, aim for an even and consistent packing to have a smooth burn and prevent uneven airflow. Take your time to distribute the herb evenly, paying attention to the thickness of the joint.
• Use Wider Rolling Papers: Rolling with wider rolling papers prevents the filter or tip from taking up too much space within the joint.

Creative Filter Rolling Techniques

Are you looking to up your rolling game? Here are a few creative rolling techniques:

Star Filter

Begin by creating an accordion, the standard joint filter tip. When you reach the midpoint, tuck the accordion end under to form a star shape. Once you have the star shape made with the accordion, you can use the rest of the paper to tightly roll around, keeping the star shape ready for your joint.

Heart Filter

Make a slight crease on the end of your tip, then use a thin tool, like a poker, to bend the middle of the crease inwards to create the top of the heart. Then, roll the rest of the paper under and around the shape to complete the heart shape and finish rolling your filter.

Cannabis Filter

Fold a long piece of cardboard 12 times, ensuring the middle crease is taller and the first and last creases are smaller. Then, roll the rest of the cardboard around it, slightly spreading the accordion inside the cylindrical shape if needed, twisting it with your thumb and index fingers.

Girelle Filter

Start by rolling one end of the paper into a small and tight spiral. Then, crease the paper under the spiral in the opposite direction and fold the rest of the paper around it to finish your joint.

Pre-Made Filters

Are you looking to skip the origami session? You can get pre-made filters for all your joint rolling needs, from disposable, pre-rolled cardboard filters to reusable filters made out of wood, glass, and silicone.

Beginners might want to skip the whole rolling process altogether with pre-rolled cones that come in all sizes, from the standard spliff size to king-size ones for long smoke sessions.

Final Thoughts

Rolling a good filter will give you the basis to roll a good joint. If it's your first time rolling one, don't worry! Practice a bit, and you'll be a professional stoner rolling joints and filters in no time.

Are we looking for filters and tips? Take a look at our selection in GrassCity, the world's best smoke shop, and don't forget to check our rolling accessories, like the RAW cone loader and our selection of rolling machines.

Common FAQs About Joint Filters

Here are the answers to common questions about rolling filters:

What is the best filter for joints?

The best filter for joints often depends on personal preference. Traditional options like cardboard or semi-stiff paper are popular choices because they are easy to find and roll. Experiment with reusable tips made from unconventional materials like glass, wood, or silicone to discover what suits your taste and style.

Can filters be reused?

Yes, many filters can be reused, particularly those made from durable materials like glass, wood, or silicone. Simply clean them thoroughly after each use to maintain hygiene and performance. Cardboard filters might leave a bad taste if you reuse them with other joints.

Do filters affect the taste of the joint?

While traditional filters may slightly alter the taste, especially if made from paper or cardboard, filters crafted from materials like glass or activated charcoal aim to enhance the flavor by filtering out impurities and providing a cleaner smoking experience.

What's the difference between joint filters and blunt filters?

Joint filters are typically smaller and designed for rolling joints with rolling papers. In contrast, blunt filters are larger and tailored for use with cigar wrappers. The main difference lies in the size and the type of smoking experience each filter is intended for.