How to choose the right rolling trays for you

While choosing a rolling tray seems at first like simple proposition, there are actually several things to consider before buying:

Size:

Do you plan to roll one joint at a time, or several in one sitting? How big are these joints? Do you need a lot of room? Do you plan to keep the tray at home or use it on the go? Size should follow function, so think specifically about what you’ll be using the tray for. Larger trays offer more room to set up, but won’t transport as easily, and smaller trays are easier to take with you, but may not provide ample rolling space. A larger tray is also good if you tend to spill or struggle to keep your weed contained when rolling (this can be especially useful for anyone with lower levels of fine motor control or shaky hands; you’ll have a wider plate to catch any stray flower).

Material:

As always, materials are a question of durability and usefulness and they have their pros and cons:

1. Metal works well, has great durability, and is reasonably priced, however, metal weed rolling trays can be harder to clean once they get dirty (be careful not to scratch the finish), and if not treated properly can even rust (something you don’t want anywhere near what you’re smoking). It takes a lot to break a metal tray, and then, even if you somehow manage to break one, it won’t shatter or break (you’ll typically get a dent, at worst)..

2. Plastic is the cheapest, but they are not as durable as metal, wood. Like metal trays, you’ll also need to take care when cleaning plastic trays to not scratch the plastic, as this can affect the coating and surface, making weed stick more and worse, potentially flaking into your weed.

3. Of all the materials, wood is ideal because of design versatility and durability, but they can cost a bit more, and aren’t always as easy to clean depending on their coating. They can also can vary in weight depending on the wood used.

4. Another “fancy” option is glass, which is durable and the easiest to clean, but heavy to transport, and can shatter if dropped. Like wood, glass also tends to fetch a higher price, depending on the quality.

There are more exotic options out there as well, such as ceramic or stone (both great options depending on the finish). Both will vary in durability depending on their make, but expect to pay top dollar for these custom pieces.

PotGuide Tip: you’d be surprised by the wide variety of options you can find in the housewares section of your local  thrift store that can be repurposed as a glass rolling tray. This can be a good place to find interesting wood trays at a lower cost as well.

Cost:

Most rolling trays of decent quality will cost anywhere from $8-15 dollars, though larger trays may go above $20. For higher quality metal trays with additional features, expect to pay up to $30. Glass trays start around $30 and go up from there. Wooden trays tend to cost the most and may go as high as $100, depending on its features (if you’re feeling really crazy, how about this custom design rolling tray and accessories in 24k gold for a mere $795).

Lifted edges:

The difference between a plate and a rolling tray is that trays are intended to catch and hold your herb while you’re rolling. Look for a curved edge high enough to keep your stash from falling out of the tray. Some trays will have straight edges, and those can be great for keeping things in place, but be prepared to fish weed out of the crevices from time to time.

Placeholder Slot, Storage, and Top Lidi:

By getting a tray with some slots and storage, you will have a safe place to keep your rolled joints, grinder, crutches, etc. The lid, of course, has the added benefit of adding another level of protection (and is better for travel). There are all kinds of spins on the classic rolling tray design (and some literally spin for easy sharing). Some trays glow in the dark or even have LED lights. Almost any kind of accoutrement imaginable is out there.

Custom Rolling Trays:

Some argue that to get the most out of your rolling experience you have to get a rolling tray set with all the bells and whistles, like removable ashtrays, holes to hold your blunt upright, compartments for your grinder and other bits and bobs. If you’re really into finding the perfect tray, there are places to customize your own, or check out this Etsy search result - where you can find more than 10,000 options. If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, or make your own pottery, consider making one yourself!

Conclusion:

The humble rolling tray may seem like a small piece of cannabis technology, but it’s simplicity shouldn’t be taken for a lack of utility. A good smoking tin rolling tray will help to make your rolling experience easier, cleaner and contained, allowing you to focus on what’s really important: rolling an excellent joint.