Making your own e-liquid is a rewarding way to customize your vaping experience. You can control the nicotine strength, flavor, and VG/PG ratios. However, for new vapers who are just starting DIY e-liquid mixing, figuring out how much nicotine to use can be confusing, especially if you’re using 72 mg VG nicotine. Here’s a simple guide to help you calculate the right amount of nicotine for different bottle sizes.
Key Ingredients in DIY E-Liquid
To make your own e-liquid, you’ll need:
- Nicotine Base – Most DIY vapers use a concentrated nicotine solution, like 72 mg VG nicotine. VG (vegetable glycerin) is a common base that produces thick vapor and a smooth hit.
- VG/PG – These are the carriers or bases. VG (vegetable glycerin) produces more vapor, while PG (propylene glycol) gives a stronger throat hit. Many vapers prefer a mix of both.
- Flavor Concentrates – Choose from a wide range of flavors to customize your e-liquid.
How to Calculate Nicotine Strength
Nicotine strength in e-liquid is measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml). If you’re using 72 mg nicotine, you’ll need to dilute it to achieve your desired nicotine level. Popular strengths are 3 mg, 6 mg, and 12 mg. Here’s how to calculate how much nicotine to add for different bottle sizes.
For 3 mg Nicotine:
- 10 ml bottle: Add 0.42 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 30 ml bottle: Add 1.25 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 60 ml bottle: Add 2.5 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 120 ml bottle: Add 5 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
For 6 mg Nicotine:
- 10 ml bottle: Add 0.83 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 30 ml bottle: Add 2.5 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 60 ml bottle: Add 5 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 120 ml bottle: Add 10 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
For 12 mg Nicotine:
- 10 ml bottle: Add 1.66 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 30 ml bottle: Add 5 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 60 ml bottle: Add 10 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
- 120 ml bottle: Add 20 ml of 72 mg nicotine.
Steps to Mix Your E-Liquid
- Measure Nicotine: Using a syringe, carefully measure the amount of 72 mg nicotine based on your bottle size and desired strength.
- Add VG/PG Base: Most vapers use a mix of 70% VG and 30% PG, but you can adjust this to your liking. VG gives thicker vapor, while PG provides more flavor and a stronger throat hit.
- Add Flavoring: Flavor concentrates usually make up about 10-15% of your total e-liquid volume, but this can vary based on how strong you want the flavor.
- Mix and Shake: Once all ingredients are in the bottle, shake well to combine them. Allow your e-liquid to “steep” for a few days to let the flavors blend.
Safety Tips for Handling Nicotine
Nicotine is a toxic substance, especially in concentrated forms like 72 mg. Here are some important safety tips:
- Wear gloves to avoid skin contact with nicotine, as it can be absorbed and cause harm.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling nicotine fumes.
- Store properly: Keep your nicotine base in a cool, dark place, and ensure it’s out of reach of children and pets.
Benefits of DIY E-Liquid
By making your own e-liquid, you can:
- Save money: DIY e-liquid is much cheaper than buying pre-made vape juice.
- Customize flavors: Mix and match flavors to create your perfect blend.
- Control nicotine strength: Tailor the nicotine levels to suit your personal preference.
Final Thoughts
Making your own e-liquid is a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy vaping, but it’s essential to measure and handle nicotine safely. Start with small batches to find your ideal nicotine strength, flavor, and VG/PG ratio. Following these simple steps will make your DIY e-liquid experience enjoyable and rewarding!