Planning a Custom E-Liquid Blend

Many enthusiasts who vape enjoy crafting their own e-liquids. Mixing at home can dramatically reduce costs, allow complete control over nicotine strength, and open a world of flavor experimentation. Yet accurate measurements are crucial. Too much nicotine makes a harsh, potentially unsafe vape; too little may fail to satisfy cravings for those using e‑liquids as a smoking cessation aid. This calculator provides a simple way to determine how much nicotine base and how much additional diluent—usually a combination of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG)—are required to achieve a specific final volume and strength. By entering the desired total volume, the target nicotine concentration, the strength of the nicotine base solution on hand, and the intended PG/VG ratio, users receive clear mixing instructions.

The core formula is derived from mass balance principles. Let $\mathrm{S\_t}$ represent the target strength in milligrams per milliliter, $\mathrm{S\_b}$ the strength of the nicotine base, and $\mathrm{V\_t}$ the total volume desired. The volume of nicotine base required $\mathrm{V\_n}$ is:

$$\mathrm{V\_n}=\frac{\mathrm{S\_t}}{\mathrm{S\_b}}\times \mathrm{V\_t}$$

The remaining volume consists of PG, VG, and flavorings. If flavor concentrates are used, their volume should be subtracted from the diluent portion. For simplicity, this calculator assumes flavorings are negligible and that PG and VG percentages sum to 100. The volume of PG diluent $\mathrm{V\_\{PG\}}$ and VG diluent $\mathrm{V\_\{VG\}}$ are computed by first removing the nicotine base volume from the total, then applying the desired ratios:

$$\mathrm{V\_\{PG\}}=\frac{\mathrm{PG\%}}{100}\times (\mathrm{V\_t}-\mathrm{V\_n})$$ $$\mathrm{V\_\{VG\}}=\frac{\mathrm{VG\%}}{100}\times (\mathrm{V\_t}-\mathrm{V\_n})$$

For example, to make 30 mL of 6 mg/mL e-liquid using a 100 mg/mL nicotine base with an even 50/50 PG/VG ratio, calculate $\mathrm{V\_n}$ = (6/100) × 30 = 1.8 mL of nicotine base. The remaining volume is 28.2 mL. Half of that, 14.1 mL, should be PG and the other half VG.

Mixing accuracy benefits from using syringes or graduated cylinders marked in milliliters. Nicotine base solutions are commonly sold in PG or VG carriers. If your base uses PG, the volume of PG diluent should be reduced accordingly. Suppose the base is 100 mg/mL in PG and you want 70% VG in the final mix. First compute the nicotine volume as before. Subtract this volume from the VG portion because it already contains PG. The calculator simplifies by assuming that the base's solvent matches the desired PG/VG ratio, but careful mixers can adjust manually.

Nicotine is a potent chemical. Concentrated solutions should be handled with gloves, eye protection, and in a well‑ventilated area. Keep all materials out of reach of children and pets. Spills on skin should be washed immediately with soap and water. Many hobbyists prefer lower base strengths such as 48 mg/mL to reduce risk; the calculator accommodates any strength. Always label your finished bottles clearly with strength and date mixed, and store them in amber or opaque containers to reduce light degradation.

PG and VG influence the vaping experience beyond merely diluting nicotine. PG carries flavors well and produces a strong throat hit, mimicking the sensation of smoking. VG is thicker, generating denser vapor clouds with a smoother inhale. Users often experiment with different ratios to balance these qualities. High VG blends may require more frequent wicking maintenance in some devices, while high PG blends may be too harsh for sensitive throats. The table below outlines common ratios and their characteristics:

PG/VG Ratio	Characteristics
50/50	Balanced throat hit and vapor production; suitable for most devices.
70/30 PG/VG	Strong throat hit and flavor; thin liquid ideal for pod systems.
30/70 PG/VG	Smooth inhale with large clouds; may require sub-ohm tanks.

Because the calculator uses basic algebra, it can adapt to advanced recipes. If flavor concentrates occupy 10% of the volume, reduce $\mathrm{V\_t}$ in the formulas by that amount and allocate the flavoring separately. Some mixers include distilled water to thin high VG liquids; its volume simply subtracts from the VG portion. Temperature affects viscosity, so warming VG slightly makes measuring easier. For those interested in nicotine salts, the math remains the same, though the type of acid used to form the salt may influence flavor and throat feel.

Crafting e-liquids also involves steeping—allowing the mixed liquid to rest so flavors blend and develop. Tobacco or dessert flavors may require weeks, while fruity blends can be vaped immediately. Gentle shaking or using a magnetic stirrer ensures even distribution. Oxidation gradually darkens the liquid and can degrade nicotine, so store finished bottles in cool, dark places. Tracking batch details in a notebook or spreadsheet helps replicate successful recipes.

The calculator is designed for educational purposes and hobbyist use. Regulations on nicotine and vaping products vary by region; some jurisdictions restrict possession of high-strength nicotine or require specific labeling. Always follow local laws. By understanding the math behind mixing, users can make informed decisions, customize flavors and strengths to personal preference, and potentially reduce reliance on commercial products whose ingredients may be undisclosed.

To experiment with your own numbers, try altering the target strength or PG/VG ratio and observe how the required volumes shift. A higher target strength always increases the volume of nicotine base, reducing the available space for diluent. Doubling the total volume doubles all components proportionally. If you ever switch to a different base strength—perhaps upgrading from a 48 mg/mL to a 100 mg/mL solution—remember that the calculation automatically scales, keeping the final concentration consistent without guesswork. Knowledge of these relationships empowers safe, repeatable mixing sessions and allows artisans to focus on flavor development.