Rolled My First

Straightforward process but the technique to obtaining a consistent build of the bunch will take time.

My first try was too loose, not packed with enough filler, even though I used the proscribed three filler leaves.

I think my misspent time as a young smoker, rolling my own gave me some small insights. Knowing that the tightness of the bunch was important allowed for less trepidation in beginning. Keeping my fingers in line, rolling with one hand while flattening the leaf ahead of the coming bunch with the other hand...all came somewhat easily. Felt familiar.

It also told me I did not roll it tight enough. I unraveled it a bit and retried. And again. Finally, I got to a point where it seemed compressed and tight in the center but the ends were less than desired.
Into the mold my prototype went. I could have re-rolled it entirely or try to compress the ends in the mold. I chose the easy way out.

Forty minutes later I opened the mold to turn the cigar a quarter turn and found the ends were getting harder, more full. But I believe re-rolling was the choice to have made.
We shall see.

Rather than using regular C clamps I employed two, one handed ratchet clamps.

One at either end of the mold, which is cut from pine and therefore easily marred. They seem to do the trick very well.

The cigar is in the mold, setting overnight after having been turned once to re-flatten the flash that accumulates.

Tomorrow, the wrapper gets applied.

Do not inhale, but enjoy.