With the rising popularity of vaping, many enthusiasts are exploring the exciting world of DIY e-liquids. The personalised flavour blends and satisfying experience of crafting your own e-liquid can be incredibly rewarding. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of creating your own unique e-liquid, from choosing your ingredients to steeping your final blend. Let's dive in!

Understanding E-Liquid Basics

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of creating your own e-liquid, it's essential to understand what e-liquid is made from and why each component is important. Typically, e-liquid consists of four primary ingredients:

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): This thick, sweet liquid produces large clouds of vapour and gives e-liquids a smoother throat hit.
• Propylene Glycol (PG): A thinner liquid that carries flavour better and mimics the sensation of smoking. It also produces less vapour.
• Nicotine: Optional, nicotine comes in various strengths and is derived from the tobacco plant.
• Flavourings: These are added to give your e-liquid unique tastes. The possibilities are virtually limitless!

Gather the Necessary Supplies

To start your DIY e-liquid journey, you'll need to stock up on essential supplies. Here’s a list of items you’ll require:

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
• Propylene Glycol (PG)
• Nicotine (optional)
• Concentrated flavourings
• Distilled water (optional for thinning the e-liquid)
• Plastic or glass bottles for storage
• Pipettes or syringes for measuring
• Mixing container
• Gloves and safety glasses (for handling nicotine)

Step 1: Decide on Your Nicotine Level

If you choose to include nicotine in your e-liquid, start by determining the strength you want in your finished product. Typical strengths range from 0 mg/ml (nicotine-free) up to 20 mg/ml or higher for those preferring a stronger hit. Remember, the higher the nicotine concentration in your base, the more carefully you'll need to measure.

Step 2: Choose Your VG/PG Ratio

Next, consider the ratio of VG to PG. A common mix is 50/50, which offers a balance between vapour production and throat hit. Nonetheless, you can tweak this ratio according to your preference:

• 70% VG / 30% PG: Produces thicker vapour and a smoother hit, ideal for sub-ohm vaping.
• 40% VG / 60% PG: Great for a stronger throat hit and better flavour delivery, suitable for mouth-to-lung setups.

Step 3: Selecting Flavours

This is where the fun starts! When it comes to flavourings, the options are endless. Whether you prefer fruity, dessert-like, or menthol flavours, make sure to choose food-grade flavour concentrates. Start with a single flavour or mix a couple to create your distinctive blend.

Common Flavor Categories

• Fruit Flavours: Citrus, berries, stone fruits, and melons.
• Dessert Flavours: Cakes, creams, and custards.
• Menthol Flavours: Classic mint and cooling sensations.
• Drink Flavours: Coffee, tea, and soda-inspired blends.

Step 4: Mixing Your E-Liquid

Now it’s time to mix! Use a calculator designed for e-liquid mixing to ensure accurate ratios according to your desired final volume and nicotine strength. If you’re a beginner, mixing in small batches is recommended until you perfect your recipe.

Basic Mixing Steps

1. Start with the VG and PG in your mixing container, allowing for the correct ratio.

2. Next, add your chosen nicotine base - ensuring proper distances from your work area and safety precautions.

3. Finally, incorporate your flavourings. A general guideline is to start with around 10-15% flavouring for a balanced taste, adjusting according to preference.

4. Mix thoroughly until all components are well-combined.

Step 5: Bottling Your Creation

After mixing, carefully transfer the e-liquid into your storage bottles using a pipette or syringe. Make sure to label your bottles with the name of the blend, the nicotine strength, and the date. This is crucial for tracking the age of your e-liquids, particularly when steeping is involved.

Step 6: Steep Your E-Liquid

Steeping is the process of letting your e-liquid rest for a certain period, allowing flavours to meld and intensify. While some flavours taste great immediately, others benefit from steeping:

• Short Steep Time: 1-3 days for fruit-based flavours.
• Medium Steep Time: 1-2 weeks for dessert and creamy flavours.
• Long Steep Time: 3+ weeks for complex blends and certain tobaccos.

Always store your e-liquids in a cool, dark place during steeping.

Step 7: Test and Adjust

Once your e-liquid has steeped adequately, test it in your device. Take notes on the flavour profile, throat hit, and overall enjoyment. If something doesn’t taste quite right, consider making small adjustments. A little tweak in flavour percentage or VG/PG ratio can make a significant difference!

Safety First: How to Handle E-Liquid Ingredients

It's essential to prioritise safety when creating your own e-liquids, especially when working with nicotine. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling nicotine base.
• Keep all ingredients out of reach of children and pets.
• Store your e-liquids in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight.
• Label your bottles clearly to avoid accidental ingestion.

Why DIY E-Liquid is Worth It

Creating your own DIY e-liquid offers several advantages over store-bought options. Here are some reasons why enthusiasts love mixing their own:

• Customisation: Tailor your flavours and nicotine strength, creating a product that perfectly suits your preferences.
• Cost-Effective: Making e-liquids at home can be significantly cheaper than buying pre-made ones over time.
• Satisfaction: There's a unique joy that comes from creating something entirely your own.

The Community and Resources

The DIY e-liquid community is vast and supportive. Online forums, social media groups, and Youtube channels abound, offering valuable resources, recipes, and troubleshooting tips. Don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or share your creations!

Join the DIY Revolution!

Embracing the world of DIY e-liquids allows you to dive deeper into the vaping experience while saving money and exploring creativity. As you experiment and create, your palate will guide you to new flavour adventures. With this step-by-step guide, you have the foundation to start your journey into the art of DIY e-liquids. Enjoy the process and happy mixing!