Mixing Raspberry Vape: A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

Raspberry is a popular choice for vape juice, and you can easily make it at home. The process is simple: gather your equipment and ingredients, determine your measurements, create a base mixture, add your flavour concentrates, add nicotine, mix and bottle it, then wait and steep. For raspberry flavouring, you can use a raspberry aroma, which should be mixed with a base. You can also get creative and mix raspberry with other flavours like vanilla or menthol.

Choosing the right ingredients

The other key ingredients in your vape juice will be propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). PG is a thin, odourless, and tasteless organic compound that provides a "throat hit" when vaping. It also acts as a "flavour carrier", enhancing the intensity of the flavour. On the other hand, VG is thicker and has a slightly sweet taste. It produces larger amounts of vapour and gives a smoother feeling in the throat.

The most popular liquid ratios are 50/50 VG/PG and 70/30 VG/PG. You can also mix in nicotine, depending on your preference. If you are a beginner, you can start with a lower concentration of 8mg and gradually increase it. Aromas or flavour concentrates are typically added at a recommended percentage of around 10%.

When choosing your ingredients, it is important to consider the quality and source of the products. Ensure that you purchase from reputable vendors and follow safety guidelines, especially when working with nicotine.

Mixing by weight or volume

There are two main methods for mixing vape juice: by weight or by volume. Each method has its own pros and cons, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Mixing by Weight

Mixing by weight is generally considered the easier and tidier method. It requires less equipment, and some argue that it is more precise. You will need a scale to measure the weight and specific gravity of each ingredient. Each ml of different ingredients will weigh differently. For example, an ml of VG (Vegetable Glycerin) will be heavier than an ml of flavour concentrates and PG (Propylene Glycol).

To mix by weight, place your bottle or container on the scale and press the 'tare' button to remove its weight. Then, add your ingredients in the following order: base, nicotine, and flavour concentrates. This is the same order in which they will appear in the e-liquid calculator results.

Mixing by Volume

Mixing by volume can be more accurate if you have the right equipment and know-how. You will need to use different syringes for each ingredient and work out the measurements with the help of an e-liquid calculator. The calculator will tell you how many ml of each ingredient you need to make your desired amount of vape juice.

Some people prefer mixing by volume because it allows them to make adjustments more easily. For example, if you accidentally add an extra drop or two of a certain ingredient, you can simply adjust the syringe to the required volume before adding anything to the batch.

Both methods of mixing have their advantages and disadvantages. Mixing by weight is generally considered easier and less messy, while mixing by volume can be more accurate if done correctly. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and how much time and effort you want to put into the mixing process.

Steeping for flavour

Steeping is a process that allows the flavours in your vape juice to infuse and mature, enhancing the taste. It is not a mandatory step, but it is highly recommended, especially if your e-juice has an alcoholic or perfume taste.

The steeping process is similar to making tea. The longer you let the tea bag sit in the water, the stronger the tea will taste. Similarly, the longer you steep your vape juice, the stronger the flavour will be.

There are several ways to steep your vape juice, but the simplest and best method is to store it in a cool, dark place for a few weeks, shaking the bottle at regular intervals. This could be once a day or every few hours. For this method to be truly effective, the bottles should be kept away from light for about two weeks.

Another factor to consider is time. The steeping time will depend on the flavours included in the juice. Fruit flavours, for example, generally require less steeping time, about 24 to 48 hours, while tobacco flavours may need up to two weeks or more.

You can also speed up the steeping process using methods such as the hot water method, the slow cooker method, or the ultrasonic cleaner method. These methods can get your vape juice steeped in a few hours or less.

It is important to note that steeping is not always necessary, especially if you are happy with the flavour of your e-juice. Additionally, overdoing the steeping process may not add anything more to the flavour, and it could mute the flavouring and weaken the nicotine strength. Therefore, it is recommended to test your e-juice after steeping for a while to determine if further steeping is needed.

Using the right equipment

To mix your own vape juice, you will need the right equipment. The two main methods of mixing are by weight or by volume. Mixing by weight requires a scale to measure the specific gravity of each ingredient, as each ml will weigh differently. Mixing by volume uses different syringes for each ingredient.

If you are mixing by volume, you will need syringes, plastic bottles with caps, and a glass container for accurate measurement. You will also need gloves, tissue paper, and a label maker to mark important details about the vape juice. It is also important to have paper towels on hand to clean up any spills.

If you are mixing by weight, you will need a scale to measure the weight of each ingredient. You can also use an e-liquid calculator to determine the correct ratios of ingredients. Riot offers a free e-liquid calculator on its website.

For both methods, you will need nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and your choice of flavourings. You can find these ingredients at your local vape shop or purchase them online.

It is important to note that DIY vape juice mixing requires careful measurement and preparation. Always follow safety guidelines and use the correct equipment to ensure a precise and enjoyable final product.

Safety precautions

Mixing your own vape juice can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to keep some safety precautions in mind when working with these chemicals. Here are some detailed safety tips to follow when mixing and using raspberry vape juice:

Safe Handling and Storage

• Always handle your vape device with care and follow the instructions provided.
• Keep your vape clean, including the mouthpiece, atomizer tank, and connectors. This prevents the accumulation of burnt vape juice and residue, avoids flavour contamination when switching juices, and helps maintain good hygiene.
• Store your vape juice in a cool, dark, and secure place, out of reach of children and pets. Vape juice has a longer shelf life when stored properly, and exposure to sunlight and heat can alter its colour and flavour.
• If you're using a pen-type vape, be extra cautious, as these can pose a choking hazard for young children.
• When travelling, always carry your vape with you in your carry-on luggage. Keep the pod disconnected from the device to avoid leakage, and ensure the heating element doesn't turn on accidentally.

Mixing and Usage

• Do not vape concentrated flavour on its own. Always dilute the raspberry flavour concentrate before use, following the recommended ratios provided by the manufacturer.
• Mix your vape juice in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling excess vapour.
• Wear gloves when handling the chemicals to avoid direct skin contact.
• Avoid tasting or ingesting vape juice orally, as it may contain harmful compounds.
• If you experience any adverse reactions, such as headaches, skin irritation, nausea, or heart palpitations, stop using the product immediately and seek medical advice.
• Do not modify your vaping device or add any substances that are not intended by the manufacturer.

Battery and Charging

• Do not leave your vape charging unattended or overnight. Overcharging can lead to battery degradation, and in some cases, explosions or fires.
• Only use the charger that came with your vape battery, and ensure it's a standard USB charger, not a fast charger.
• Do not use phone chargers or other fast-charging equipment, as these can cause permanent damage to your vape battery.

Public Vaping Etiquette and Legal Considerations

• When vaping in public, always ask for permission from those around you, especially when indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Avoid blowing vapour directly into people's faces and direct it away from others.
• Be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding vaping. For example, some cities have enacted legislation prohibiting vaping in enclosed workplaces or public places.

Remember, while vaping may be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is not without risks. Always follow safety precautions and use these products responsibly.

Frequently asked questions