From Scrolls to Smokes – A Brief History of Rolling Papers

Rolling papers, while often seen as a simple smoking accessory today, have a rich and fascinating history that stretches back centuries. What started as a necessity for tobacco users became a symbol of personal ritual, counterculture expression, and, in modern times, even a statement of sustainability and craftsmanship.

Let’s dive into how rolling papers came to be—and which brands are at the top of the global scene today

Where It All Began

The earliest documented use of paper for smoking dates back to 16th-century Spain, where people began using scraps of book pages to roll tobacco. Around the mid-1700s, the Spanish town of Alcoy became the birthplace of purpose-made rolling paper. Here, artisans began crafting thin papers specifically for smoking—this innovation spread quickly through Europe and the rest of the world.

In 1838, the Lacroix family (more on them later) launched one of the first branded rolling papers, revolutionizing the smoking experience forever.

The Evolution of Rolling Papers

Over time, rolling papers evolved in size, material, and flavor to suit changing tastes. From bleached to unbleached, rice paper to hemp, flavoured to organic—what was once a utilitarian product now comes in a variety of forms catering to every kind of enthusiast.

Modern rolling papers are more than just tools—they’re a lifestyle accessory, often reflecting one’s values (eco-friendly, artisanal, minimalist) and vibe (party, meditative, travel-friendly).

Iconic Rolling Paper Brands Around the World

🥇 RAW (USA/Spain)

Easily one of the most well-known brands globally, RAW revolutionized the market with its unbleached, all-natural papers. Made from hemp and featuring a unique criss-cross watermark for an even burn, RAW has become a go-to for purists and casual smokers alike.

Did you know? RAW founder Josh Kesselman is a cultural icon in the smoking world and has played a huge role in destigmatizing paper culture.

🥈 Rizla+ (France)

Possibly the oldest commercial rolling paper brand in the world, Rizla+ dates back to 1796. The name combines “Riz” (French for rice) and “La+” (from the Lacroix family name). Rizla papers have been a staple in Europe for centuries and were even used by soldiers in WWI and WWII.

🥉 OCB (France)

Founded in 1918, OCB (short for Odet, Cascadec, Bolloré) is another historic player. Known for their ultra-thin and slow-burning papers, OCB is especially popular in Europe and has gained a strong foothold in North America too.

🔥 Elements (Spain)

Made from rice and sugar gum, Elements rolling papers are incredibly thin and burn almost without ash. The brand emphasizes eco-friendliness and clean smoking, making it a favourite among conscious consumers.

🌿 Smoking (Spain)

Another heritage brand, Smoking Papers (from the Miquel y Costas group) have been around since the 1800s. With a wide variety of paper types and sizes, this brand blends tradition with modern innovation.

🪩 Vibes (USA)

Launched by rapper and entrepreneur Berner (founder of Cookies), Vibes represents the luxury lifestyle side of rolling papers. With premium quality and bold packaging, Vibes is all about merging hip-hop, design, and craftsmanship.

India’s Place in the Paper World

In India, the culture of rolling has grown rapidly over the past decade. While international brands dominate the space, there’s a growing interest in locally crafted, premium-quality rolling papers that reflect Indian sensibilities, aesthetics, and smoking rituals.

Stash Pro, for instance, is emerging as a leading name in premium accessories, with the largest collection is Lighters, curated cones, trays, grinders, and more designed for both functionality and vibe.

The Future of Rolling Papers

As more smokers lean toward eco-conscious choices, the future of rolling papers looks both innovative and sustainable. Expect to see:

• Hemp-based biodegradable paper
  
• Custom-printed and artist-designed sheets
  
• Infused and flavored slow-burn papers
  
• Smart packaging and collectable formats
  
  

Rolling papers are no longer a background prop—they’re front and center in the smoking experience.

Final Puff

From underground scenes to global shelves, the journey of the rolling paper is a fascinating one. Whether you’re a seasoned roller or a newcomer curating your first kit, it’s worth knowing where that little sheet of paper comes from—and where it might be going next.

So next time you roll one up, you’re not just engaging in a ritual—you’re participating in a 500-year-old legacy.