Folding & Shaping Your Dough

1. Start with a well-hydrated dough that has been fermented adequately.

2. Flour your work surface and hands to prevent sticking.

3. Gently stretch the dough out into a rectangle and fold it in thirds like a letter.

4. Turn the dough 90 degrees and repeat the folding process.

5. Flip the dough over so the seam side is facing down and use your hands to create surface tension by pulling the dough towards you.

6. Use a bench scraper to shape the dough into a round or oblong shape.

7. Place the dough bottom side up in a floured proofing basket or bowl with a floured towel.