Jessica Tyson
06/03/2025 • 5 min read
Vape juice, also called e-liquid, is the heart of any vaping device, delivering customisable flavours and adjustable nicotine levels. For enthusiasts, learning how to make vape juice at home is a fantastic way to save money and explore personalised options, especially with the variety of flavour concentrates available. Ready to learn how it's done? Keep reading!
Shop refillable pod kitsAt its core, vape juice is a blend of ingredients that work together to create the vaping experience. The four essential components include:
It is important to avoid using essential oils in DIY vape juice recipes as they can negatively affect the quality of the vape juice. Always use ingredients specifically formulated for vaping.
And, you'll want to remember that the VG/PG ratio plays a big role in how your vape juice performs. High VG is great for cloud chasers who want a smoother vape, while high PG is perfect for those who prioritise strong flavour and a noticeable throat hit.
DIY vape juice has several advantages saving money and customisation. When you blend your own e-liquids, you get to control everything from the strength of the nicotine to the intensity of the flavour. You can also get creative, mixing flavours to invent something entirely bespoke - unlike anything you'll find in a vape shop. And, you'll also know exactly what's in your e-liquid. Enjoy peace of mind knowing every ingredient in your juice.
Before you start mixing, you’ll need a few essential tools like syringes or pipettes, storage bottles, safety gear (like gloves and goggles), and labels to keep track of your recipes. DIY vape juice kits are beginner-friendly options that provide all necessary supplies in a bundled format.
Using a vape juice calculator is crucial for accurately measuring ingredients, taking into account factors like intended volume, nicotine strength, and VG/PG ratio.
Once you have your tools, you'll need to gather your ingredients, starting with VG and PG (food-grade quality is essential). Look for flavour concentrates that are specifically made for vaping. And finally, choose a nicotine base, if you wish. Just make sure it's sourced from a trusted retailer.
Those e-liquid calculators we mentioned are invaluable tools for anyone looking to make their own e-liquid. These online tools simplify the mixing process by calculating the precise amounts of each ingredient needed based on your desired volume, nicotine strength, and VG/PG ratio.
To use an e-liquid calculator, you’ll need to input details such as the flavour concentrates you’re using, their concentrations, the ratio of propylene glycol (PG) to vegetable glycerin (VG), and the desired nicotine strength. Then the calculator ensures that your e-liquid is mixed accurately, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
When it comes to mixing your DIY e-liquid, you have two main methods to choose from: By weight or by volume. Mixing by weight involves using a digital scale to measure your ingredients, which is highly accurate and particularly useful for small batches. This method minimises the risk of measurement errors and ensures consistency in your e-liquid.
On the other hand, mixing by volume uses syringes or measuring cylinders to measure your ingredients. This method can be more convenient, especially for larger batches, and is easier to manage if you don’t have a scale. Both methods have their advantages, so choose the one that best fits your needs and resources.
Now, let's see how it's actually done. We've broken it down here, and we'll get into more details down below these steps.
The base mixture is the foundation of your e-liquid, consisting of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). The ratio of PG to VG can significantly impact your vaping experience. A higher PG ratio results in a stronger throat hit and more intense flavour, making it ideal for those who prioritise taste. Conversely, a higher VG ratio produces thicker e-liquid and more vapour, perfect for cloud chasers.
To prepare your base mixture, combine the PG and VG in your desired ratio using a scale or syringes for accurate measurements. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the rest of your e-liquid creation process.
Once your base mixture is ready, it’s time to add flavour concentrates and nicotine. Flavour concentrates come in a vast array of options, from fruity to dessert-inspired profiles, allowing you to customise your e-liquid to your taste.
Add the flavour concentrates to your base mixture in the desired amount, typically between 10-20%. If you choose to include nicotine, you can add it in the form of nicotine shots or nic salts. The amount of nicotine will depend on your personal preference and the intended use of the e-liquid.
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After mixing your e-liquid, you may want to let it steep to allow the flavours to mature and blend together. Steeping involves storing the e-liquid in a cool, dark place for a few days to weeks. This process enhances the overall taste and smoothness of your vape juice. Once the steeping period is over, it’s time to bottle your e-liquid.
Use glass bottles for storage, as they preserve the flavour and quality better than plastic. Label each bottle with the date, flavour, and nicotine strength to keep track of your creations. Proper storage in a cool, dark place will ensure your e-liquid maintains its quality over time.
Creating vape juice can be safe and enjoyable, but you'll need to follow a few precautions. Always handle nicotine with care. Wear gloves and goggles, and keep nicotine out of reach of children and pets. Choose high-quality ingredients. This means you should only use food-grade VG, PG, and vape-safe flavourings. Finally, always store your juice in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality and longevity.
Making your own vape juice is more than a cost-saving measure — it’s an opportunity to tailor every aspect of your vaping experience. From selecting flavours to controlling the VG/PG ratio, DIY vape juice empowers you to create blends that are uniquely yours. With a little practice and the right tools, you’ll soon master the art of mixing your perfect e-liquid.
Ready to give it a try? Stock up on the essentials, experiment boldly, and enjoy the satisfaction of a truly personalised vape.
Still not sure where to start?
