DIY Tobacco E-Liquid Mixing – how to mix your tobacco e-liquids

DIY mixing of tobacco e-liquid is a rewarding process for those who want to personalize their vaping experience. Mixing your own e-liquid allows you to control flavor intensity, nicotine strength, and VG/PG ratio. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own tobacco e-liquid.

1. Understanding Ingredients

To create your tobacco e-liquid, you will need a few core ingredients:

• Propylene Glycol (PG): This is the thinner part of the mix and helps carry the flavor. PG also gives a stronger throat hit, similar to traditional tobacco.
• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): VG is thicker and produces dense vapor clouds. A high VG ratio is perfect for smoother hits and cloud production.
• Nicotine (optional): You can add nicotine based on your preference, though it’s not necessary for everyone. It’s measured in milligrams (mg/ml).
• Flavor Concentrate: For tobacco e-liquids, the flavor comes from tobacco concentrates. These can be Naturally Extracted Tobacco (NET) flavors or synthetic tobacco concentrates.
• Distilled Water or Vodka (optional): These are sometimes used to dilute thick VG if the mix is too viscous.

2. Tools Needed

• Measuring Syringes/Pipettes: To accurately measure your ingredients.
• Empty Bottles: Plastic or glass bottles (preferably amber) for mixing and storing the e-liquid.
• Gloves and Goggles: Nicotine can be toxic if handled improperly, so always use gloves and eye protection.
• Labels: To mark your bottles with the date, mix ratio, and nicotine strength.

3. Step-by-Step Mixing Process

Step 1: Determine Your Recipe

A typical tobacco e-liquid recipe consists of a specific ratio of VG/PG, nicotine, and flavoring. Here’s a basic starting point:

• VG/PG Ratio: For a balanced throat hit and vapor production, start with 50/50 VG/PG. For a smoother vape with more vapor, you might go for 70% VG / 30% PG.
• Flavor Percentage: Tobacco flavors are potent, so start with 8-15% of total volume for flavor concentrate. The percentage can be adjusted based on how strong you want the flavor.
• Nicotine Level: Depending on your preferences, add the nicotine solution to reach your desired strength (e.g., 3 mg/ml or 6 mg/ml).

Step 2: Calculate the Amount of Each Ingredient

You can use an e-liquid calculator (widely available online) to determine the exact amounts you need of each ingredient. The calculator will help you avoid guesswork, ensuring you get the ratios right.

For example, if you’re making 100 ml of e-liquid:

• Flavor Concentrate: If using 10%, add 10 ml of flavor concentrate.
• VG and PG: Depending on your preferred ratio, adjust VG and PG accordingly.
• Nicotine: Calculate the correct amount of nicotine based on your base strength and target nicotine level.

Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients

• Start by adding nicotine to your empty bottle. Use a syringe to precisely measure the nicotine level, being cautious to avoid spills.
• Add the flavor concentrate next, ensuring it is well measured to avoid an overpowering or weak flavor.
• Add VG and PG to fill the bottle to the desired level.
• Mix Thoroughly: Shake the bottle well for at least 2-3 minutes to make sure all the components are fully blended.

Step 4: Steeping the Mixture

Tobacco e-liquids often benefit from a process called steeping. Steeping allows the flavors to meld and mature, resulting in a more complex and smoother taste. Here’s how to steep:

• Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for at least 1-2 weeks.
• Shake the bottle every day or every couple of days to keep the components mixed.
• If you want to accelerate steeping, you can put the bottle in a warm water bath for a short time, but be careful not to overheat it.

Step 5: Testing and Tweaking

• Once the steeping period is over, test your mix. If it tastes too strong, add more VG/PG to dilute it slightly. If it tastes weak, consider adding a small amount of extra flavor concentrate.
• Note Your Adjustments: Keep notes of your recipe and adjustments to perfect your mix for the future.

Tips for Making Great Tobacco E-Liquid

1. Start with Small Batches: Especially if you are new to DIY mixing, begin with 10 ml or 30 ml batches to test your recipes without wasting materials.
2. Use NET Flavors for Authenticity: For a more genuine tobacco flavor, consider using Naturally Extracted Tobacco concentrates, which are derived from real tobacco leaves.
3. Work in a Ventilated Area: Always mix in a well-ventilated space, especially when handling nicotine.
4. Label Your Bottles: This will help you remember your recipes, dates, and steeping times.

Safety Considerations

• Handle Nicotine with Care: Nicotine is toxic in concentrated forms, and skin contact can lead to poisoning. Always wear gloves and be cautious when handling.
• Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store all DIY supplies in a safe place, away from pets and children.

Conclusion

DIY mixing of tobacco e-liquid is a great way to craft a vape experience tailored to your tastes. With careful measurements, a little patience, and a few steeping tricks, you can create rich, satisfying tobacco blends that can rival many store-bought options. Experimenting with different flavor percentages and VG/PG ratios can help you discover your ideal vape, making the process not just economical, but also deeply rewarding.