So, you’re curious about how to smoke a joint? You’re not alone! We’re not here to tell you how to smoke weed, but we will show you how to smoke hemp for a similar experience, minus the intensity and with added wellness benefits. Smoking a joint is one of the most classic and popular ways of enjoying the benefits of cannabis. Whether you’ve seen it in movies or heard about it from friends, many people choose to smoke a joint because it’s simple, convenient, and easy to share. But before you light up, it’s important to understand what you’re doing.
Learning how to smoke a joint properly can help you avoid mistakes, enjoy a smoother smoke, and have a more comfortable first-time experience. Knowing what to expect also helps reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed, especially for first-timers. If you rush in without a plan, you might cough too much, feel worried, or waste your cannabis flower. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of smoking joints, step by step. We’ll also cover different types of joints and common mistakes, as well as answer some popular questions. Let’s get started!
What Is a Joint?
A joint is a rolled-up piece of paper, typically made from natural hemp fibers, filled with ground cannabis flower. It looks kind of like a hand-rolled cigarette, but it contains ground cannabis flower instead of tobacco and nicotine. Most joints are made with rolling paper or hemp papers, and some include a filter or crutch at the end to help you hold it better.
People choose joints because they are portable, easy to use, and don’t need a special device designed for smoking, like a water pipe or dry herb vape. A typical joint holds a smaller quantity of cannabis than a blunt or bowl, which makes it ideal for short smoking sessions or sharing with a friend.
Joints are also small and discreet. You can take them with you just about anywhere, and they don’t require any special tools to operate; just make sure you have a lighter or matches on hand to light them up.
What Are the Various Types of Cannabis Joints?
There’s more than one way to smoke cannabis, and joints come in a few different styles. Understanding these can help you choose the right one for your needs and avoid confusion.
1. Standard Joint
A standard joint is the most common. It’s filled with ground cannabis flower, rolled into a cone or cylinder using a hemp paper wrap, and usually includes a filter at one end. These are great for solo use or small groups.
2. Pre-Roll or Pre-Rolled Joint
A pre-rolled joint is exactly what it sounds like—a joint that’s already rolled and ready to go. Many dispensaries and cannabis shops sell pre-rolls, making them a good choice for first-time consumers or people who don’t want to roll their own.
3. Spliff
A spliff looks like a joint, but it’s a mix of tobacco and cannabis. The primary difference is that spliffs give a stronger head rush because of the tobacco leaves. Not everyone likes this mix, especially newer cannabis consumers.
4. Blunt
Blunts are rolled using cigar or tobacco wraps instead of hemp papers. They’re larger than joints and often burn slower, making them better for long smoking sessions, intense hits, and sharing with a group.
5. Oil-Infused Joints
Some joints are made with cannabis oil added to the inside or outside of the roll. These joints often contain higher amounts of THC and other cannabinoids, making them stronger than usual. Be careful—these are not great for first-timers.
6. Creative Shapes
Some cannabis consumers like to roll joints into shapes like crosses, stars, or even animals! While fun, they’re not always practical. Focus on a perfect joint first, then get fancy later.
Which Type of Joint Is Right for Me?
Knowing which type of joint you’re dealing with can make a big difference in your smoking experience. Whether you go for a pre-roll or try to gently roll your own, pick the type that best suits your comfort level and desired strength.
Curious about which joint is best for your lifestyle? Explore different types and start with what feels right for you at Exhale Wellness. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to enjoying cannabis.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Smoke a Joint
Ready to learn how to properly smoke a joint? Let’s walk through it step-by-step so you can enjoy a safe, relaxing, and even burn.
Step 1: Inspect Your Joint
Before lighting anything, take a good look at your joint.
- Make sure it’s packed evenly. If one side is too tight and the other too loose, it might cause uneven burning. From the crutch to the tip, the evenly packed flower makes all the difference in enjoying a smooth smoke.
- Check the tip. Is there a filter or crutch? That helps the joint keep its shape and gives you something to hold.
- Feel the joint with your fingers. Use your middle fingers and index finger to check if it’s too loose or too tight. A perfect joint should feel snug, but not hard like a rock.
If you’re rolling your own, avoid over-grinding your cannabis flower. An even grind helps the joint burn better and gives you a smoother smoke.
Step 2: Light the Joint Properly
Lighting the joint is where many first-time consumers mess up.
- Hold the joint near the flame. But don’t just stick it right into the fire. Keep it close enough to where the actual flame touches the tip without engulfing it.
- Slowly rotate the joint while lighting. This helps the tip burn evenly and avoids “canoeing,” which is when one side starts burning faster than the other and gives the joint a weird, canoe-like shape.
- If required, use an alternative to matches or lighters. A hemp wick—a thin, beeswax-coated string of hemp fibers—can also help you light the joint more gently without burning off too much right away.
Take your time—don’t rush this step. A good light makes for a better smoking experience.
Step 3: Inhale Correctly
How you inhale matters, especially if it’s your first time.
- Take small puffs first. Don’t suck in too hard or try to fill your lungs right away.
- Pull the smoke into your mouth. Then, gently breathe it into your lungs if you’re comfortable.
- Hold it for just a second or two. Holding it longer will not make you more euphoric and may even make you cough.
For first-timers, the goal is to feel it out slowly. Everyone’s tolerance is different, so go at your own pace.
Step 4: Pace Yourself
The key to a good joint-smoking session? Take it slow.
- Wait between puffs. It can take a few minutes to feel the desired effects.
- Savor the smoke. If you keep hitting the joint too fast, you might feel overwhelmed.
- Don’t feel pressured to smoke the entire joint. You can put it out and save it in an airtight container for later.
Moderation is important. You’ll enjoy smoking cannabis more if you give yourself time to ease into it.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Smoking a Joint
Even experienced cannabis connoisseurs make mistakes sometimes. Here are a few things to watch out for when smoking a joint.
Inhaling Too Hard
When you suck in too hard, you risk burning the joint unevenly or getting hot smoke that irritates your throat. Take small puffs instead, and savor the moment.
Over-Rolling the Joint
If your joint is rolled too tightly, air can’t flow through it. This makes it hard to smoke and can lead to uneven burning. For the best results, use a light hand and gently roll.
Not Paying Attention to the Burn
If you notice one side burning faster than the other (a canoe-like shape), fix it early. Rotate the joint or use a lighter to touch up the slow-burning side. This will help the joint burn evenly and waste less ground cannabis.
FAQs on How to Smoke a Joint
How Do You Properly Smoke a Joint Without Coughing?
Start with small puffs, and don’t hold the smoke too long. Make sure your joint is rolled well and burning smoothly. Proper grind, lighting, and pacing make for smoother smoke.
How Long Does It Take to Smoke a Joint?
That depends on the size of the joint and how many people are sharing it. A standard joint usually lasts 5 to 15 minutes, but larger ones or oil-infused joints can last longer.
What Is the Best Way To Hold a Joint While Smoking?
Most people use their index finger and middle fingers to hold the joint like a cigarette. Hold it gently, and don’t squeeze too tightly—you don’t want to crush the cannabis flower inside.
How Do You Smoke a Joint Multiple Times?
If you don’t want to finish the entire joint in one go, put it out carefully and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready, just relight the tip and enjoy the rest.
Should You Inhale Deeply When Smoking a Joint?
Not at first. If you’re a beginner, inhale into your mouth and gently into your lungs. Deep inhales can cause coughing or discomfort. Build up slowly for an optimal experience.
Final Thoughts – How to Smoke a Joint [A 4-Step Method for a Perfect Sesh]
Smoking joints can be a fun and relaxing way to enjoy cannabis, especially when done right. By understanding the steps, avoiding common mistakes, and choosing the right type of joint, you can make your first time much more enjoyable.
Take your time, start with a smaller quantity, and always listen to your body. Whether you’re using a pre-roll or trying to roll your own, the goal is to enjoy the moment and have a great smoking experience. Now that you know how to smoke a joint, why not try it in a chill setting with friends or solo with Exhale Wellness? Just remember: take it slow, stay safe, and enjoy the journey. Shop our line of premium THCa flower—it’s your ticket to an unforgettable sesh and serious fun!
