Dough Journal

Bulk fermentation

How to decide when bulk is done

Use this page when the dough timeline feels vague. The goal is to read rise, bubbles, wobble, and dough temperature together.
Image slot

Rise marker reference

Reserve space for a bowl or container with rise marks at common temperature targets.

Future image slot for bulk rise reference.
Video slot

Wobble and bubbles

Use this slot for a short clip showing edge bubbles, wobble, and dome cues.

Future video slot for deciding when bulk is done.

What to look for

Early bulk: the dough still feels dense and tears easily. Keep folding on schedule.
Mid bulk: the dough feels puffier, smoother, and begins holding rounded edges between folds.
Ready to shape: it has visible bubbles at the edges, a gentle dome on top, and the target rise for your dough temperature.

27C dough

About 30% rise

24C dough

About 50% rise

21C dough

About 75% rise