simpcity As vaping grows in popularity across the UK, more users are exploring ways to personalise their experience beyond store-bought e-liquids. One of the most accessible ways to do this is by mixing your own vape juice using shortfills and nicotine shots. This simple DIY approach not only gives you greater control over nicotine strength and flavour but can also be more cost-effective over time.
If you’re new to this, the good news is that you don’t need to be a chemist to get started. With a few basic tools and a bit of knowledge, you can start tailoring your vape juice to suit your exact preferences.
What Are Shortfills and Nicotine Shots?
Before diving into the mixing process, it’s helpful to understand what you’re working with.
Shortfills are larger bottles of flavoured e-liquid that are sold without nicotine. They are typically underfilled slightly to leave space for a nicotine shot, also known as a nic shot. These nic shots are 10ml bottles of unflavoured nicotine, usually in a higher concentration such as 18mg or 20mg.
By combining a shortfill with a nicotine shot, users can adjust the final strength of their e-liquid without affecting flavour or vapour quality.
Why Mix Your Own?
There are several reasons vapers turn to DIY mixing:
- Custom strength: You can create an exact nicotine level that suits your needs.
- Wider flavour range: Mix your preferred flavour with or without nicotine.
- Cost savings: Shortfills often offer better value per ml compared to ready-mixed nic salt e-liquids.
- Smoother control: Especially helpful for those reducing nicotine over time.
For those who prefer a smoother experience and faster absorption, it’s worth exploring nic salt e-liquids and shots, which are designed for a gentler throat hit and are ideal for lower-powered devices.
Understanding Ratios and Nicotine Strength
When you add a nicotine shot to a shortfill, you’re diluting the nicotine into the full volume of the bottle. Here’s a quick example to help you calculate:
- A 50ml shortfill in a 60ml bottle + one 10ml 18mg nicotine shot = 60ml of 3mg strength e-liquid
- Two 10ml shots added to a 100ml shortfill = 120ml of 3mg e-liquid
The general formula is:
(Nic shot volume x Nic strength) ÷ Total final volume = Final nicotine strength
You can use this equation with any combination, whether you’re aiming for 1.5mg, 3mg or a custom intermediate level. Be mindful not to exceed safe nicotine limits, especially if using multiple shots.
How to Mix E-Liquid with Nicotine Shots
Mixing your e-liquid is straightforward. Follow these steps for best results:
- Wash your hands and prepare your workspace
Work on a clean surface with good lighting. Have tissues and gloves on hand if needed. - Open the shortfill bottle
Most shortfills come with a removable nozzle or cap. Use a bottle opener or small tool if it’s tight. - Add the nicotine shot
Carefully pour the contents of your nicotine shot(s) into the shortfill bottle. - Replace the cap and shake well
Close the bottle securely and shake it vigorously for at least one to two minutes. This helps distribute the nicotine evenly throughout the liquid. - Let it steep (optional)
Some flavours, particularly desserts or tobaccos, may benefit from a few days of steeping, allowing the flavours to settle and improve.
That’s it your vape juice is now ready to use.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Label your bottles: If you’re mixing different strengths or flavours, labelling helps keep things organised.
- Store properly: Keep your liquids away from sunlight and heat to preserve flavour and nicotine stability.
- Use trusted products: Always buy nicotine shots and shortfills from reputable sources. Lower-quality nic shots can affect both taste and performance.
Most importantly, use only shots and shortfills that are designed for vaping. Never attempt to mix your own using raw nicotine, which can be hazardous without proper equipment and experience.
Take Control of Your Vape with DIY Mixing
DIY vape juice mixing is a practical and rewarding way to take more control over your vaping. Whether you’re adjusting your nicotine level, cutting costs, or experimenting with flavours, learning how to use nicotine shots safely and effectively is a valuable skill for any vaper.
By starting with quality ingredients and understanding how to mix properly, you’ll enjoy a consistent and personalised vaping experience that’s tailored to your needs. With so many reliable options available today, from traditional freebase to nic salt e-liquids and nic shots, it’s never been easier to build your perfect blend.
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