DIY Ejuice Q's

[JCinFLA]

I bought a little handheld mixer almost 2 years ago, that was recommended by several people on ECF. It's the Norpro Deluxe Cordless Mini Mixer. I got it on eBay for about $7.99 w/Free S&H. Comes with 4 attachments (to whip, stir, blend, and beat), and it takes 2 AA batteries. I really love the stir attachment because it's slender enough to fit in the tiny opening on plastic eliquid bottles! Once it's down in the bottle...push the start button and about the bottom inch of it splits in half lengthwise, to flare apart and do a super job of stirring/blending everything.

Using it to mix 3 custard and/or creamy recipes I make that used to take about a week "to be their best" to me...are now great in just 2-3 days at most! It's powerful enough that I've used it to mix even 150mL size bottles, in just a few seconds. It's one of my favorite vape related "tools".

 

[IDJoel]

I’ve finally found my footing and my mixes are finally coming together, yay! I honestly know that the advice I received here has a big part in this fact! Though of course I’m still learning and hopefully always will be

@IDJoel or anyone else who uses a Badger mini paint mixer to mix your juice, while mixing today my “blade” came off. Has anyone else experienced this? Is there a way to fix it or would I be better off purchasing another considering they’re fairly affordable?

Did it come apart in two sections like this:

If so; you should just be able to push it back on, and be good to go.

If you mean the paddle came off the shaft (see below):

If this is the case; I'm not sure what can be done. It appears to me that it is press-fit on. A metal epoxy, like JB Metal Weld or similar, would definitely get it back on there; but I would be concerned about possible toxic(?) residue in my e-liquid. Not to mention the cost of the epoxy would likely be near half the price of a new mixer.

Because you just got this, I would suggest doing a couple of things, before you just up and replace it. Badger has a pretty solid reputation. I would take a photo or two (pictures help make the problem obvious) of the damage, and then first contact the vendor you bought it through. Most resellers count on maintaining positive word-of-mouth; and won't quibble with a $10 product (especially with pictures that show no additional obvious abuse).

If they won't make it right; then I would contact Badger directly. A lot of manufacturers also don't like bad PR. A polite email (with a photo, and even an image of the receipt that shows the product and purchase date) explaining the recent purchase, the problem, and asking what possible resolutions might be available; often gets results. I would not be a bit surprised, if they didn't send you a replacement shaft, or even a whole new mixer.

If that flops, or the hassle is not worth it to you; then look at replacing it.

I have never read a report of the Badger mixer doing this before; this is a new one to me. You could try another Badger. I think this is enough of a fluke that I would not be scared off... yet anyway. If you no longer feel "warm & fuzzy" about Badger; then the Norpro @JCinFLA suggests is a good alternative in my book. (I still think about picking one up; just to have as a backup.)

I can't remember if it was @DaveP, or @Fozzy71, who actually bought a Badger, a Norpro, and I think(?) maybe even a third one; and tried them all side-by-side. I'm not certain of the results anymore, but I think I remember the Badger edging out the Norpro, but I don't remember why. Maybe they will stop by this thread and share their opinion again.

 

[DaveP]

I can't remember if it was @DaveP, or @Fozzy71, who actually bought a Badger, a Norpro, and I think(?) maybe even a third one; and tried them all side-by-side. I'm not certain of the results anymore, but I think I remember the Badger edging out the Norpro, but I don't remember why. Maybe they will stop by this thread and share their opinion again.

Both of us posted results. I use the Badger on bottles that the tip fits. For the narrow top bottles I use the Norpro with the split tip that widens as it revolves. Both produce thousands of tiny bubbles and turn the juice into a milk shake that becomes perfectly clear in a half hour.

I'm sold on both. I guess I'd choose the Norpro if I had to choose one, just because it fits all bottles. I like the Badger for any bottle that has a wider opening, like the 50ml and 100ml Boston Rounds. 60ml LDPE bottles usually have narrow thin tips that fit my Kayfuns.

For under $10 each get both.

 

[NatashaTMT]

Handheld eLiquid Mixer I used to use one of these till I got my vortex mixer. Not bad for the price

I have a couple of those little electric handhelds like in your link. I was looking at a few vortex mixers I’d like to try but they cost upwards to $160+. Have you found better pricing?

 

[NatashaTMT]

Did it come apart in two sections like this:

No

If you mean the paddle came off the shaft (see below):

Yes

A metal epoxy, like JB Metal Weld or similar, would definitely get it back on there; but I would be concerned about possible toxic(?) residue in my e-liquid. Not to mention the cost of the epoxy would likely be near half the price of a new mixer.

I have to agree with you here on both the toxicity and the cost. When it broke while I was mixing I actually teased my daughter about grabbing the gorilla or super glue for me, lol. I’m wondering if there IS an adhesive that will bond without potentially adding toxicity... but then I’m back to the cost which would most likely be similar to the cost of a new Badger and may not even work.

It appears to me that it is press-fit on.

It snaps back on but when placed in water or eliquid and turned on, it flies off.

I have never read a report of the Badger mixer doing this before; this is a new one to me.

I actually might be at fault because I bumped the bottom of the plastic beaker I was mixing in. I wouldn’t think that would cause this but because I’m using it for unintended purposes, I have to wonder.

I LOVE the ability to mix directly into it’s bottle as @JCinFLA & @DaveP mentioned! I think I’ll have to try the Norpro. Though it sounds beneficial to obtain both. Thanks all for the advice and info!

 

[IDJoel]

I actually might be at fault because I bumped the bottom of the plastic beaker I was mixing in. I wouldn’t think that would cause this but because I’m using it for unintended purposes, I have to wonder.

I don't think that should have broken it; I routinely gently bounce mine, and let it ride/rattle across the bottom of my mixing beakers, and the blade is still tight.

In my mind, yours sounds like a real mfg. defect, and I would try contacting the reseller or Badger.

I’m wondering if there IS an adhesive that will bond without potentially adding toxicity... but then I’m back to the cost which would most likely be similar to the cost of a new Badger and may not even work.

I imagine there likely is; I have never looked. I would start by googling "food safe glues," and see where that takes you.

 

[NatashaTMT]

I don't think that should have broken it; I routinely gently bounce mine, and let it ride/rattle across the bottom of my mixing beakers, and the blade is still tight.

In my mind, yours sounds like a real mfg. defect, and I would try contacting the reseller or Badger.

I believe your right. I appreciate this insight! I’ll definitely contact the seller. In the mean time, I ordered the other one you linked and it’ll be here Friday. So looking forward to trying that one out!

 

[IDJoel]

I believe your right. I appreciate this insight! I’ll definitely contact the seller. In the mean time, I ordered the other one you linked and it’ll be here Friday. So looking forward to trying that one out!

I'd love to hear what you think; once you've had a chance to use it.

 

[NatashaTMT]

I'd love to hear what you think; once you've had a chance to use it.

You got it!

 

[dc99]

I have a couple of those little electric handhelds like in your link. I was looking at a few vortex mixers I’d like to try but they cost upwards to $160+. Have you found better pricing?

Be patient, I'm trying to work out a deal with a company that sales used lab equipment. They have a bunch of them if I can get a good price.

 

[NatashaTMT]

Be patient, I'm trying to work out a deal with a company that sales used lab equipment. They have a bunch of them if I can get a good price.

You’re speaking my language!

 

[NatashaTMT]

*Need advice, as usual
Before I started DIY I remember seeing a post somewhere about LorAnn Oils not containing oil. So I thought they were okay. I just ran across a post on here...
LorAnn Flavors- COLOR CODED Complete Ingredients List
So, I checked mine and found four which might be unusable. I found these on Wizard Labs categorised along with our other usual flavors we all use. I think this might’ve been another newbie mistake. The flavors are...
Nutty Amaretto (contains Sweet Almond Oil)
Natural Lime Oil
Natural Nutmeg Oil
Cinnamon Oil (purchased at Wally World)
This seems obvious to me now considering oil isn’t water soluble. Even though, I’d like advice. Should I definitely NOT use these in my DIY juice?

 

[IDJoel]

This seems obvious to me now considering oil isn’t water soluble. Even though, I’d like advice. Should I definitely NOT use these in my DIY juice?

Correct; the three you listed are not recommended for vaping.

FYI for LA concentrates: @eMado updated the LorAnn list last October (2017) so it contains newer concentrate offerings. Because the original stickied thread has been closed to further replies; eMado was forced to start a new thread. You can find the new thread here: Best LorAnn Super Strength Flavors for Vaping – Color Coded Spreadsheet

 

[DaveP]

It snaps back on but when placed in water or eliquid and turned on, it flies off.

I haven't had the mixer attachment fly off my Badger stirrer. Since it's a one attachment tool mine is pressed on tightly.

If the return window is still open, I'd send it back for a replacement, but first look at the spacing between the handle and the shaft tip. If you press the shaft in sufficiently it's really hard to get off. Mine is pressed on so that the space between the attachment and the body of the mixer is less than 2mm. It will pull off if I want to remove it, but it's not that easy. If yours spins off, it's probably not pressed on far enough.

The Norpro has more attachments and the attachment I like is the one that expands into a Y when it spins. It will still fit into a small 60ml bottle neck if you hold the expandable arms together when you insert it.

ETA: I just realized that the little star wheel on the end of the shaft is what you said came off. Contact the seller and they will either send you a new attachment or more likely an entire new Badger.

 

[NatashaTMT]

I haven't had the mixer attachment fly off my Badger stirrer. Since it's a one attachment tool mine is pressed on tightly.

If the return window is still open, I'd send it back for a replacement, but first look at the spacing between the handle and the shaft tip. If you press the shaft in sufficiently it's really hard to get off. Mine is pressed on so that the space between the attachment and the body of the mixer is less than 2mm. It will pull off if I want to remove it, but it's not that easy. If yours spins off, it's probably not pressed on far enough.

The Norpro has more attachments and the attachment I like is the one that expands into a Y when it spins. It will still fit into a small 60ml bottle neck if you hold the expandable arms together when you insert it.

ETA: I just realized that the little star wheel on the end of the shaft is what you said came off. Contact the seller and they will either send you a new attachment or more likely an entire new Badger.

I sent an email describing my issue. Now the waiting game to see how it’s handled. I’ve been mixing solely in beakers and then pouring into the finish bottle. I always wonder if I’m loosing any minute drops of flavoring as we don’t use much of some. Really looking forward to omitting the pouring and washing of beakers! When mixing ten small sampler recipes with only five smaller beakers, definitely have to stop in the middle and wash. So this will really help! Maybe my Badger breaking is a blessing in disguise, lol! Thanks for all advice!

 

[NatashaTMT]

Correct; the three you listed are not recommended for vaping.

FYI for LA concentrates: @eMado updated the LorAnn list last October (2017) so it contains newer concentrate offerings. Because the original stickied thread has been closed to further replies; eMado was forced to start a new thread. You can find the new thread here: Best LorAnn Super Strength Flavors for Vaping – Color Coded Spreadsheet

Thanks for confirming and sharing this great spreadsheet!

 

[NatashaTMT]

So, I know how to whip up just about anything I want in the kitchen without recipes. I know DIY ejuice isn’t cooking but I’m wondering if certain rules apply. For example, can I mix cream cheese, butter, vanilla and sweetener to get cheesecake filling?

 

[DaveP]

I sent an email describing my issue. Now the waiting game to see how it’s handled. I’ve been mixing solely in beakers and then pouring into the finish bottle. I always wonder if I’m loosing any minute drops of flavoring as we don’t use much of some. Really looking forward to omitting the pouring and washing of beakers! When mixing ten small sampler recipes with only five smaller beakers, definitely have to stop in the middle and wash. So this will really help! Maybe my Badger breaking is a blessing in disguise, lol! Thanks for all advice!

For me, switching to an electronic scale was a game changer. You put the bottle on the scale, hit the tare button, and add ingredients. Press the tare button after each ingredient pour and once all ingredients are in, you shake it up, slap a label on it, set it aside, and put the next bottle on the scale.

The scale, a bag of pipettes and a case of 12 boston round glass bottles is sufficient to get started. I use clear condiment bottles (like catsup squeeze bottles) for PG and VG. I also use thin tip LDPE bottles and transfer to them after steeping to free up the glass bottles for the next DIY session. I like clear glass because it lets me see the true color as steeping produces results.

 

[NatashaTMT]

For me, switching to an electronic scale was a game changer. You put the bottle on the scale, hit the tare button, and add ingredients. Press the tare button after each ingredient pour and once all ingredients are in, you shake it up, slap a label on it, set it aside, and put the next bottle on the scale.

I started DIY by weight from the beginning. I love my hundredths scales as I know exactly how accurate my mixes are. I’m sure DIY by volume can be just as accurate done correctly. It’s just not my first choice.

The scale, a bag of pipettes and a case of 12 boston round glass bottles is sufficient to get started. I use clear condiment bottles (like catsup squeeze bottles) for PG and VG.

Before I started, someone on here told me I’ll never have enough bottles. So I bought way more than needed to get started. However they’ll be used, eventually lol. Because I always purchased 120 ml bottles of "premium juice” I didn’t think I’d need many small bottles. So I did have to purchase more of those and also smaller bottles for flavor testing. Although I read up A LOT before starting DIY, I never saw anything anywhere about needing different size pipettes. I only had 3 ml to start with. After ordering .5 and 1 ml, measuring those minute amounts which don’t come in dropper bottles became MUCH simpler! I use sometimes on dropper bottles when less than a drop is needed for test batches. I also have my VG and PG in larger squeeze bottles with larger twist open tips.

I also use thin tip LDPE bottles and transfer to them after steeping to free up the glass bottles for the next DIY session. I like clear glass because it lets me see the true color as steeping produces results.

I’ve been using all transparent plastic, except for nicotine. Some of mine are PET which aren’t fun to squeeze out eliquid. I won’t be purchasing more of those. I like how you steep in containers rather than “finish” bottles. I think I’ll try this. I’m running low on 5 ml bottles with so many flavor testing steeps atm. (Those creams!) This could solve my problem.
Thanks for your advice as it’s much appreciated!

 

[IDJoel]

So, I know how to whip up just about anything I want in the kitchen without recipes. I know DIY ejuice isn’t cooking but I’m wondering if certain rules apply. For example, can I mix cream cheese, butter, vanilla and sweetener to get cheesecake filling?

The standard pat DIY answer applies: "Yes and no..."

DIY creation is about 95% flavor; and 5% "texture." Cooking is more balanced.

DIY is mostly about finding the concentrate that provides the most appropriate flavoring effect. Sometimes it is a simple 1:1 "I want a strawberry taste; so I use Brand X-Strawberry." But, other times, the flavor doesn't exist (like straight/plain cream cheese); or it is modified (like a "browned" butter vs. melted butter; or plain sugar vs. caramelized sugar). So I may need to go to some different flavor that provides the flavoring effect (or specific notes; as DIY often refer).

If you are going to use cooking experience, to influence the creation of a DIY recipe, it is helpful to analyze what purpose the food ingredient is used for in that particular food recipe (depending on the recipe; it may be more than one). Is it adding specific flavor notes? If so; what are they? Is it acting as a binder, thickener, filler? Most likely won't be needed in the DIY creation. Is there a textural contribution? Textures like "thick, creamy, moist, juicy, dry, and fluffy" are all realistically doable in DIY; textures like "grainy, crispy, crunchy, and flaky" not so much.

Sometime choosing the "best" DIY ingredient for one flavor note will also provide additional wanted (or unwanted) flavor notes. I may want to use INW-Creme Brulee for the correct caramelized sugar note, but I may/may not want the vanilla note that comes along with it. Depending on what I want my DIY creation to be; I may need to leave out a separate vanilla note; or use a different concentrate all together.

A good example of this "from scratch" development can be seen in the ECF thread: Milk Tart (South African version). I found the evolution of this DIY recipe by collaboration, based completely on a food recipe, and the discussion on ingredient choice/selection, to be very educational.