Avoid Common RAW Roller Mistakes by Using the Switch Correctly

Written by Brandon Topp

December 8th, 2025

You have a RAW adjustable roller in your hands. You see the switch on the side. But the manual doesn't clearly explain which way is SLIM and which is REGULAR, or what actually changes when you flip it.

This confusion leads to inconsistent rolls, wasted papers, and the nagging question of whether you're doing something wrong. We created this guide to solve switch uncertainty, prevent the mistakes that damage rollers, and help you roll consistently, whether you have a 70mm, 79mm, or 110mm model.

While we don't sell RAW adjustable rollers at Mood, we put together this resource because the switch causes genuine confusion for so many users. If you're considering whether joint rolling machines are worth it, this guide will help you understand how adjustable models work.

For those on the hunt for a new tool, check out Mood’s Joint Roller today. 

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Adjustable Switch

• Choose the Right Setting and Load Amount

• Why Material Preparation Matters

• Step-by-Step Rolling with Success Checks

• Fix Loose Rolls, Paper Jams, and Switch Problems

• Match Your Roller Size to the Right Papers

• Keep Your Roller Working with Quick Cleaning

Understanding the Adjustable Switch

The RAW adjustable switch controls the apron spacing between the two rollers. That's the fundamental mechanism behind everything it does.

When you set it to SLIM or SKINNY, the switch narrows the gap between rollers for tighter, thinner rolls. When you switch to REGULAR or WIDE, it opens the gap for fatter, wider rolls.

How to Identify Your Current Setting

Look at the side of your roller for labels that say SLIM versus REGULAR. Some units use numbers instead, typically 1 for SLIM and 2 for REGULAR.

You can also check the apron itself. When set to SKINNY, the flexible sheet between the rollers appears physically tighter with less visible gap.

CRITICAL WARNING: When rolling on the SKINNY setting, never push in at the bottom of the roller. This can permanently damage the apron, causing ripples and slack that prevent proper rolling.

Does the Switch Work Differently Across Sizes?

No. The switch operates identically whether you have a 70mm, 79mm, or 110mm RAW roller.

The only difference between these models is the length of paper they accommodate. The switch mechanism and apron spacing adjustment remain exactly the same.

Choose the Right Setting and Load Amount

Selecting the wrong setting for your intended amount is the primary cause of failed rolls. Here's how to match setting to intention.

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When to Use SLIM/SKINNY

Use SLIM when you want a tighter, more compact cylinder. This setting provides better structure for smaller amounts and creates that classic thin joint profile.

Load 0.5 to 0.75 grams when using SKINNY. This range prevents jams while maintaining good airflow through your finished roll.

When to Use REGULAR/WIDE

Use REGULAR when you want to fit more material and create a wider result. This setting handles larger amounts without restricting airflow.

You can comfortably load 1.0 to 1.5 grams on REGULAR. Going beyond this risks overfilling even with the wider setting.

Why Material Amount Matters for Each Setting

The tighter space on SKINNY amplifies any overfilling. Too much material forces the apron to stretch beyond its intended range, leading to jams and uneven rolls.

Starting with less material on SKINNY gives you room to adjust. You can always add a bit more on your next roll if it comes out too loose.

Why Material Preparation Matters

Even with the correct switch setting, poor material preparation sabotages your results. Here's what works.

Get Your Grind Consistency Right

Aim for a medium-fine grind. Material that's too coarse burns unevenly and creates hot spots.

Material that's too fine restricts airflow and makes your roll hard to draw from. Use quality cannabis flower and pieces small enough to pack smoothly but not so fine that they turn to powder.

Find the Right Pack Firmness

Your goal is tight enough to hold shape during and after rolling, but loose enough to allow a smooth draw. Think of it as snug, not compressed.

The SKINNY setting requires extra attention here. Because the tighter space amplifies irregularities, uneven packing shows up more obviously in your finished roll.

Consider Using a Filter or Crutch

A filter tip improves structure and prevents material from pulling through when you draw. This becomes especially helpful with SLIM setting, where the narrower diameter makes the structure more critical.

You can buy pre-made tips or roll your own from cardstock. Position it at one end before you start rolling.

Step-by-Step Rolling with Success Checks

Following the correct sequence with your switch already set prevents the most common mistakes. Here's the full process with what success looks like at each stage.

For a complete visual walkthrough of the rolling process, check out our comprehensive joint rolling guide.

Open and Create Your Trough

Push one roller down with your thumbs to create a smooth trough in the apron. The flexible sheet should form a clean U-shape between the two rollers.

Success check: The apron moves smoothly without binding or sagging.

Load Your Material

Distribute ground material evenly across the length of the trough. Leave a little space at the ends if you're adding a filter tip.

Remember your amounts: less material for SKINNY (0.5-0.75g), more for REGULAR (1.0-1.5g). Using a rolling tray can help keep your workspace organized. Success check: Material sits level across the full length without gaps or clumps.

Close and Begin Rolling

Gently bring the movable roller back up to close the trough. Place your thumbs on the top roller and fingers on the bottom.

Roll both pins toward you. This action shapes and packs the material inside the apron.

Roll it several times until the material feels uniformly snug. Success check: The cylinder has consistent thickness from end to end.

Insert Your Paper

Take your rolling paper with the gummed edge facing up and toward you. The adhesive strip should be at the top.

Gently insert the paper between the apron and the packed material, letting it stick out slightly. Success check: Paper enters straight without twisting or bunching.

Seal Your Roll

Continue rolling the pins toward you. The roller pulls the paper inside as you spin.

Here's the critical timing: lightly moisten the gummed edge just before it feeds into the machine. Don't wet it too early, or the paper will stick to itself prematurely.

Keep rolling until the paper is fully wrapped around your cylinder. Success check: Paper wraps evenly with no visible creases or loose edges.

Remove Your Finished Roll

Rotate the rear pin backward to release tension. Pop the top roller back open.

Pull out your finished roll. Twist the open end to close it off, or pack it down slightly with a poker if needed. Learn the proper techniques for lighting and smoking your joint once you've completed the roll.

Fix Loose Rolls, Paper Jams, and Switch Problems

Even experienced users run into issues. Here's how to diagnose and fix the most common problems.

Your Rolls Come Out Too Loose

Loose rolls usually mean you need more pre-rolling turns before inserting paper. Close the roller and spin it 5-8 times to compact the material more firmly.

Alternatively, you might have too little material for your selected setting. Verify the switch matches your intended thickness.

Material Falls Out During Rolling

This signals an incorrect amount for the setting you've chosen. Check that you're using 0.5-0.75g for SKINNY or 1.0-1.5g for REGULAR.

Also, check your distribution. Material must spread evenly across the full length before you close the roller.

Paper Keeps Jamming

Paper jams happen when the sheet enters crooked or the gummed edge is pre-wet too early. The paper must enter straight with the adhesive up and facing you.

Check for overfilling on SKINNY setting. Too much material prevents the paper from feeding smoothly through the tight space.

The Switch Feels Stuck or Inconsistent

Material residue in the switch area can prevent smooth movement. Clean around the switch with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

Listen for a positive click when you change settings. If the switch moves but doesn't click into place, debris may be blocking the mechanism.

How to Tell if It's Technique or Damage

Run this diagnostic test: Switch to REGULAR, use minimal load (0.5g), and follow the process carefully. If it works perfectly, your technique on SKINNY needs adjustment.

If problems persist on both settings with proper paper feed and appropriate amounts, inspect your apron closely. Visible ripples or persistent slack indicate the apron may need replacement.

Match Your Roller Size to the Right Papers

Understanding how roller sizes work prevents purchasing mistakes and compatibility confusion.

Switch Behavior Stays Consistent

Your 70mm, 79mm, or 110mm roller all use identical switch logic. SLIM works the same way on every size. REGULAR works the same way on every size.

The only variable is paper length. Standard papers fit 79mm rollers. King Size papers fit 110mm rollers. Learn more about choosing the right rolling papers.

Quick Supplies Checklist

Before you start rolling, gather these items: papers that match your roller length, a grinder, your material, a lighter, and optional filter tips.

Visual learners can reference our general roller tutorial to see how the two-roller apron system works in action. The basic mechanics apply whether you're using our simple Mood roller or a RAW adjustable model.

Keep Your Roller Working with Quick Cleaning

Regular maintenance prevents switch problems and extends your roller's working life.

Simple Cleaning Process

Wipe down the rollers and apron with a cloth or swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Remove any visible residue that could affect movement.

Let everything dry completely before your next use. Moisture interferes with proper rolling.

Remove Stuck Material Carefully

If material gets wedged in the mechanism, remove it gently without forcing anything apart. Aggressive cleaning can damage the apron or misalign the rollers.

Proper cannabis storage helps keep your material at the right consistency for rolling. Dry material crumbles and falls through; overly moist material clogs mechanisms.

When to Consider Apron Replacement

Inspect your apron if jams happen on both settings despite proper technique. Visible ripples in the flexible sheet indicate permanent stretching.

Persistent slack that doesn't resolve with cleaning means the apron has lost its tension. RAW sells replacement aprons, and YouTube has installation videos showing the process.

You've Mastered the Switch for Consistent Rolls

You now know how to identify your current setting by checking labels and observing apron spacing. You can choose the right mode for your intention, whether that's a tight SKINNY roll with 0.5-0.75g or a wider REGULAR roll with 1.0-1.5g.

You understand the full rolling sequence with success checks at each stage. And you can troubleshoot loose rolls, jams, and switch issues by separating technique problems from equipment damage.

Remember the single most important protection: never push in at the bottom when using SKINNY setting. This mistake causes permanent apron damage that no amount of cleaning can fix.

If something still feels off after following this guide, revisit the troubleshooting section and run the diagnostic test with REGULAR setting. The device is now predictable rather than mysterious. You have the knowledge to use it confidently.

Prefer to skip the rolling process entirely? Browse our selection of premium pre-rolls for convenient, professionally rolled joints ready to enjoy.