New to DIY...probably the first in a line of questions.

[Saltraker]

1. I see many receipes that use flavorings from different suppliers. One ingredient might be from TFA, another ingredient from LorAnn, etc. Does using ingredients from different suppliers actually influence the final product?
2. There are several suppliers mentioned frequently. What I haven't noticed is many references to Capella's, Bicks, or even Wilton. Any particular reason? Are they just not good or are they not appropriate or what?
Thanks to all of you for helping people who are new to this and vaping in general. Where would us noobies be without you?

 

[Hoofhearted62]

i got my start with all wizard labs flavors which are TFA/Loranns. since i like to order many flavors at a time for shipping cost reasons. WL works for me and TFA flavors seem to work just fine. I'm not familiar with some of the others you mentioned. i have 60 flavors in stock and 10 more should be here monday.

 

[we2rcool]

Does using ingredients from different suppliers actually influence the final product?

Absolutely...and sometimes SUBSTANTIALLY!

One "juicy peach" may not taste similar to another "juicy peach". Or they may taste very similar, but they don't interact with the other flavors/chemicals the same way at all.

The best advice I can give is to get to know your flavors separately before combining them! If you don't 'get to know' each individual flavor, you won't likely be able to tell 'what flavor is doing what' in your mixes.

Remember, we're working with chemical-based flavorings (hence, there's chemical interactions, as well as flavor interactions)...so chocolate + caramel doesn't always equal "chocolate caramel"! And what tastes 'one way' right after mixing, may taste substantially different after the flavors have melded & blended after steeping for a week, two, or even a month.

Have fun!

 

[Hoosier]

...
2. There are several suppliers mentioned frequently. What I haven't noticed is many references to Capella's, Bicks, or even Wilton. Any particular reason? Are they just not good or are they not appropriate or what?
Thanks to all of you for helping people who are new to this and vaping in general. Where would us noobies be without you?

I've seen a number of people post about trying Bickford and Wilton then later post dissatisfaction mostly because Bick's is weak and I don't remember what the issue is with Wilton's. There are no stores near me that carry Bick's, so I've never bothered to try them and I've never seen a Wilton's that had a label that didn't contain something I didn't want in my atty.

Capella's is a great choice, especially for a new mixer. They are easy to work with and have pretty good flavor. When I say easy to work with I mean it is difficult to get them to go to levels 7 or 8. (Reference levels from my blog on Flavoring Levels.) There is are multiple threads in this sub on Capella's and even some recipes in the recipe sub that specify Cap's.

 

[dannyv45]

There is a phrase used here very often "taste is very subjective" everyone has there own opinions on flavors. There are many threads here dedicated to the individual flavor manufactures. That would be a good place to start reading. As far as my own opinion I find Hangsen the easiest to work with and the flavor is consistant. TFA is harder to work with but when you get it right it's very good. As far as amounts and precentages again every ones taste is different so start with the lowest recommended percent and follow the proper mixing and steeping methods. Then if its to weak or to strong adjust accordingly. Mixing is nothing more then trial and error.