How to Choose a Zig-Zag Rolling Tray Size and Material
By TPB Marketplace | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
Use this step-by-step guide to pick the right Zig-Zag rolling tray size and material for your setup. Compare small vs large trays and hemp vs metal finishes.
Quick answer
Choose a small Zig-Zag tray for one-person sessions and tight storage, and a large tray when you want room for papers, filters, and ground material. Pick hemp if you prefer a softer, natural look, or metal if you want the smooth, easy-to-wipe surface.
Size differences that actually matter
The small Zig-Zag trays measure 10.65 by 6.30 inches, while the large tray measures 13.4 by 10.8 inches. That extra footprint gives you space to spread out papers, a filter, and your material without crowding, but it also takes up more desk or shelf space.
The high edges and rounded corners on both sizes help keep material contained while you roll. If you often roll on a couch or bed, the smaller tray is easier to balance; if you roll at a desk, the large tray keeps everything in one place.
Hemp vs metal: what changes in use
The metal trays have an extremely smooth glossy surface that wipes clean quickly. The hemp tray shares the same thick tin construction and high edges but has a different finish that may appeal if you prefer a less reflective look. Neither finish is inherently better; the choice comes down to how you clean and store your tray.
Step-by-step: pick your tray
- Measure your usual rolling spot: Check the width and depth of the table, shelf, or lap tray where you roll. The small tray needs about 11 by 7 inches of clear space; the large needs about 14 by 11 inches. A common mistake is eyeballing it and finding the tray overhangs or blocks your keyboard. If space is tight, the small tray is the safer fit.
- Decide between solo and shared sessions: For one person rolling a few papers at a time, the small tray is usually enough. If you often roll for two or like to keep multiple papers and filters out, the large tray prevents clutter. Checkpoint: do you regularly run out of room on a dinner plate? Then size up. Match tray size to how much gear you keep out at once, not just to the number of people.
- Choose hemp or metal by cleaning preference: The metal trays have a glossy surface that wipes clean easily. The hemp tray has the same thick tin build but a different finish. If you want the simplest wipe-down, pick metal; if you prefer a less shiny look, pick hemp. Mistake to avoid: assuming hemp is softer or more absorbent—the catalog lists the same thick tin construction. Both materials share the same durable tin body; the finish is the real difference.
- Check the edges and corners: All three trays have high edges with rounded corners. Run your finger along the edge when it arrives to confirm there are no sharp spots. A common mistake is ignoring a bent corner, which can snag paper or let material escape. Inspect the rim before first use; a quick check now prevents spills later.
Product facts
- Zig-Zag Small Orange Rolling Tray: Measures 10.65 by 6.30 inches and is made of thick tin with a glossy surface. This small tray fits on a narrow shelf or nightstand and wipes clean with a quick pass.
Zig-Zag Small Orange Rolling Tray - Zig-Zag Small Hemp Rolling Tray: Same small dimensions and thick tin build, but with a hemp finish. Choose this if you want the small footprint with a more natural-looking surface.
Zig-Zag Small Hemp Rolling Tray - Zig-Zag Large Papers Rolling Tray: Measures 13.4 by 10.8 inches, giving you significantly more rolling room. The larger surface keeps papers, filters, and material separated so you are not juggling items.
