How To Light a Joint (Properly)

1:08 am - December 22, 2023 - La Mesa, CA - EMBR Editorial

Whether you’re a newcomer eager to learn, someone curious about cannabis culture, or an experienced user aiming to polish your joint lighting skills, this guide is crafted with you in mind. At EMBR, we pride ourselves on being more than a dispensary – we are dedicated educators and avid cannabis enthusiasts. We aim to empower you with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for an impeccable smoking experience. Join us as we explore the essential art of how to light a joint properly, an indispensable skill for every cannabis connoisseur.

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How to Properly Light A Joint

Lighting a joint properly is an art form. It’s the difference between a satisfying experience and a frustrating one. Here’s an in-depth look at the process:

Select the Right Tools

Choosing an appropriate lighting tool is fundamental. Opt for a hemp wick, an eco-friendly choice that offers a pure burn without the chemical taste imparted by conventional lighters. Alternatively, butane lighters are also an excellent option due to their steady flame, which is vital for an even burn.

The Lighting Technique

Mastering the lighting technique is crucial. When lighting the tip of your joint, ensure it is rotated slowly. This rotation is critical to achieving an even burn right from the outset, preventing one side from burning faster than the other.

Initial Puffs

The initial puffs play a critical role. Lightly puff on the joint without inhaling deeply. This approach encourages an even burn and prevents overheating, a typical error among beginners. It’s about gentle breaths, not deep inhalations.

Close-up of hands expertly shaping a joint, focusing on even distribution of cannabis for a smooth burn.

What Happens When A Joint Isn’t Properly Lit?

Improper lighting can result in various issues, significantly diminishing your smoking experience:

  • Canoeing: This occurs when the joint burns faster on one side, leading to wasted cannabis and an unsatisfactory experience.
  • Harsh Taste: An uneven burn can impart a bitter, unpleasant flavor to your smoke.
  • Waste of Cannabis: When the burn is uneven, a portion of your cannabis does not get utilized effectively, leading to unnecessary wastage.

Patience and attention during the lighting process are key to avoid these issues.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lighting A Joint

The Joint Lighting Do’s

  • Even Grinding: A consistent, medium grind of your cannabis is crucial for a smooth burn. Uneven or too fine a grind can result in tight packing, which impedes airflow and affects the burn.
  • Proper Storage: The way you store your cannabis can significantly impact its burning properties. Please keep it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a specially designed container that maintains optimum humidity levels.
  • Airflow Check: Before lighting, draw on the unlit joint to check for airflow. If it feels too constricted, gently roll the joint between your fingers to loosen the contents and ensure better airflow.

The Joint Lighting Dont’s

  • Avoid Overheating: Lighting a joint requires a delicate touch. Focusing the flame on one area for too long can lead to overheating and, consequently, an uneven burn.
  • Wind and Environment: Be aware of your surroundings. Lighting a joint in a windy or unstable environment can cause the flame to flicker unpredictably, leading to uneven burning.
  • Wet Tips: Avoid overly moistening the tip of the joint with your mouth, as this can make the lighting process more challenging and affect the initial burn.
  • Inhale While Lighting: Avoid inhaling when lighting your joint, unlike with cigarettes. This practice prevents you from seeing how the tip burns and often leads to a quick and uneven burn.

A person in the process of rolling a joint, demonstrating the art of rolling for a beginner tutorial.

Putting Out A Joint For Later

Only sometimes will you want or need to finish a joint in one sitting. Here’s how to save it for later enjoyment:

Extinguishing

Instead of crushing the lit end, which might make relighting difficult, gently tap it on an ashtray to extinguish the flame.

Cooling Down

Allow the joint to cool down naturally before storing it. This ensures the flavor remains intact and the joint is ready for a future session.

Storing Properly

Store your partially smoked joint in a dry place, preferably in a joint tube or a similar container designed to keep it fresh and preserve its quality.

Mastering the technique of “how to light a joint properly” encompasses more than just the act of smoking. It involves a deep understanding of cannabis, an appreciation of the ritual involved, and the ability to enhance the overall experience. At EMBR, we are dedicated to guiding you on this journey, ensuring each session is as enriching as the last. Embrace the art of smoking with us, and let EMBR be your companion in the vibrant world of cannabis.

Shop Pre-Rolled Joints at EMBR

EMBR dispensaries are your gateway to the world of cannabis. We offer a curated selection of products, perfect for all experience levels. Our staff are not just salespeople but passionate experts eager to share their knowledge and help you find what works best for you. Whether it’s your first joint or you’re a seasoned smoker, EMBR is the destination for quality cannabis and friendly, knowledgeable service.

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