The Art of Dabbing: Everything You Need to Know

Dabbing has taken the cannabis community by storm over the last decade, offering an intense and flavorful way to enjoy concentrates like THCA live resin badder. Whether you’re a seasoned dabber or a beginner looking to explore, it’s never too late to brush up on everything you need to know about the art of dabbing. 

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing refers to the process of vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts, commonly known as dabs, which include wax, shatter, badder, sugar, crumble, diamonds, sauce/terp sauce and live resin. These concentrates are highly potent, often containing 60-90% THC, making dabbing a much stronger experience compared to smoking traditional flower.

Dabs are heated on a hot surface, usually a nail or a banger, and then inhaled through a dab rig, similar to a bong. Unlike smoking, dabbing produces vapor rather than smoke, which many users find smoother and more flavorful.

How are Dabs made?

The process of making dabs involves extracting key compounds from cannabis while leaving behind unnecessary plant material. There are two main methods of extraction: solvent-based and solventless techniques.

2. Solvent-Based Extraction

This method uses chemicals to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant:

🔥 Butane Hash Oil (BHO) – Cannabis is blasted with butane, which extracts THC and other cannabinoids. The solvent is then purged, leaving behind concentrates like shatter, wax, budder, or crumble.

🧪 CO₂ Extraction – This method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull out cannabinoids without leaving residual solvents. It’s commonly used for high-quality products like live resin and distillate.

🥃 Ethanol Extraction – The cannabis is soaked in ethanol, which strips the cannabinoids from the plant. After the alcohol is evaporated, the remaining extract is purified and ready for use.

2. Solventless Extraction

These methods don’t require chemicals and instead use heat, pressure, or mechanical separation.

💨 Rosin Press – Cannabis is placed between heated plates and pressed until it releases a resinous extract. This method is favored for its purity and simplicity.

❄️ Bubble Hash (Ice Water Hash) – Cannabis is mixed with ice water and agitated to break off trichomes. These trichomes are then filtered, dried, and collected as bubble hash.

✨ Dry Sift (Kief Collection) – Cannabis is sifted through fine screens to separate the trichomes, which can then be pressed into hash or used as-is.

Final Processing & Storage

After extraction, dabs may go through additional refinement processes, such as curing or winterization, to enhance quality and remove unwanted compounds. Proper storage in an airtight container, away from heat and light, helps preserve potency and flavor. Note however that the cannabis industry is innovating with each passing day and new ways to enjoy the plant are always just an idea away.

Benefits of Dabbing

• Stronger Effects – Higher potency means a more intense and longer-lasting high.
• Flavorful Experience – Concentrates preserve terpenes, enhancing taste and aroma.
• Less Plant Material – Dabbing produces cleaner vapor compared to smoking
• Efficiency – A little goes a long way, making it a potentially cost-effective option for frequent users.

Dabbing Tips

While dabbing offers many benefits, safety is key. Here are some essential tips:

• Start Low and Go Slow – Due to the high potency, beginners should start with very small dabs.
• Control Your Temperature – Overheating can destroy terpenes and create harsh vapor.
• Use Quality Concentrates – Stick to lab-tested products to avoid harmful additives or contaminants.

• Don’t Dab Alone – If you’re dipping your toes into dabbing it wouldn’t hurt to dab with friends nearby since dabs produce much more intense highs than you may be used to.

• Stay Hydrated – Dabs can cause dry mouth and dehydration, so keep water nearby.

Final Thoughts

Dabbing is an exciting way to experience cannabis concentrates, offering unmatched potency, flavor, and efficiency. However, it’s crucial to approach it responsibly, ensuring you use the right tools and techniques for a safe and enjoyable session. Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced enthusiast, understanding the proper art of dabbing will enhance your overall cannabis experience.