Start here
Begin with one calm, simple routine
A healthy starter needs only flour, water, a steady temperature, and a little patience. Follow the steps below one at a time, and note what you see each day.
Measure in grams
Weigh flour and water so each feeding is predictable and easy to repeat.
Feed on a rhythm
A consistent schedule matters more than perfect timing. Pick a time you can keep.
Watch for change
Rising, bubbling, and shifts in texture over several days are normal milestones.
Your first routine
Four steps to get started
Step 01
Weigh your ingredients
Use grams for flour and water. Consistent weights make each feeding easier to compare.
Step 02
Feed on schedule
Discard, then feed at the same time each day. Keep the ratio steady while you learn.
Step 03
Check the temperature
Note the room temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit. Warmth changes how quickly a starter rises.
Step 04
Observe the rise
Mark the level in the jar and look for bubbles and a domed top. Small shifts over days 1 to 7 are expected.
Ready for more? Browse the full guides archive or download the printable feeding tracker to keep your notes in one place.