Rolling Papers Guide: Sizes, Materials and Cones Explained
Rolling papers look simple until you’re staring at a whole wall of them. Different sizes, different materials, white, brown, clear, flavored, cones. The good news is that it really comes down to three questions: how big, what it’s made of, and whether you want to roll it yourself. Here’s how to answer all three.
Paper Sizes
- Single wide: The smallest standard size. Good for a thin, quick roll.
- 1 1/4: The most popular size. A little wider than single wide, and the everyday go-to for a lot of people.
- King size: Longer papers for a bigger roll.
- King size slim: King size length but narrower, so you get a longer roll without it getting too thick. Elements Prism King Size Slim is a good example.
If you’re not sure, start with 1 1/4. It’s the easiest size to learn on.
Paper Materials
What a paper is made of changes how thick it is, how fast it burns and how much it affects flavor.
- Rice paper: Ultra thin and slow burning, with very little paper taste. Elements Ultra Thin is a classic rice paper.
- Hemp: A little thicker and easy to grip, which makes it beginner friendly. Try Bob Marley Pure Hemp, OCB Organic Hemp or Zig-Zag Organic Hemp.
- Bamboo: Thin and smooth, like OCB Bamboo.
- Wood pulp: The traditional classic, like Zig-Zag and OCB Premium.
- Clear cellulose: See-through papers made from plant cellulose, like Glass Clear Cellulose King Size. They roll differently than regular papers, so expect a little practice.
Bleached vs. Unbleached
White papers have been whitened during processing. Unbleached papers keep their natural brown color. Plenty of people prefer unbleached for a more natural look and feel, like Bob Marley Unbleached Hemp or OCB Unbleached Cones.
Flavored and Colored Papers
Want something different? Juicy Jay’s flavored papers add a sweet taste, and Blazy Susan purple papers and pink cones bring the color.
Papers vs. Cones
Cones are pre-rolled papers shaped like a cone, with a filter tip already in place. You just fill, pack and twist the top.
- Pick papers if you like rolling, want to control the size, or want the lowest cost per roll.
- Pick cones if you want speed and consistency with no rolling skill needed. Check out OCB Unbleached Cones, Bob Marley Cones and Blazy Susan Purple Cones.
Don’t Forget the Tips
A filter tip, also called a crutch, gives your roll a firm mouthpiece, keeps it from collapsing and makes it easier to hold. Some packs include tips, like OCB Sophistique with Tips. Glass tips are a reusable option.
Shop Papers and Cones
Browse the whole lineup in our Papers & Cones collection and order online. All smoking products are for adults 21+ only.
Rolling Papers FAQ
What size rolling paper is most popular?
1 1/4 is the most popular size. It’s a little wider than single wide and easy to roll.
What’s the thinnest rolling paper?
Rice papers are among the thinnest, like Elements Ultra Thin.
What’s the difference between bleached and unbleached papers?
Bleached papers are whitened during processing. Unbleached papers keep their natural brown color.
Are cones easier than rolling papers?
Yes. Cones come pre-rolled with a filter tip, so you just fill, pack and twist the top.
What’s a crutch or filter tip for?
It gives your roll a firm mouthpiece and keeps the end from collapsing.