1 yeast pack, 2 batches

[NicoleBrewer]

So I would like to do 2 10 gallon batches. Both IPAs but different recipes. I've made starters for s I ngle batches of beer, but never for two. Is it possible? If so how do I go about doing it. I know most don't typically do a starter with dry yeast because you can over pitch that way, so could I use a dry pack and do a basic starter?

 

[flars]

Make the starter as you would for a single batch, then begin stepping up that yeast from the first starter with additional starter worts. These two starter/pitch rate calculators will help with the numbers. Go for a growth rate of at least 1.0.
http://www.brewersfriend.com/yeast-pitch-rate-and-starter-calculator/
http://www.homebrewdad.com/yeast_calculator.php

If the size of your starters may be limited by the container you are using, split the yeast propagated, cold crash and decant to a sanitized jar, and make starters with each portion of the yeast.

Keep track of the estimated new cells propagated with each starter and step up.

edit: Dry yeast question. You can make a starter with dry yeast. You will lose the properties built into the dry yeast though. According to Fermentis, the dry yeast must be properly rehydrated before making the starter. This basically changes the dry yeast to liquid yeast. The same type of yeast you would have if you harvested yeast from a beer made with the dry yeast.

 

[TennBrewer]

I use the technique described here http://brulosophy.com/methods/yeast-harvesting/

It has worked very well for me, I now have several pints of yeast in the fridge I can take out and build up a starter.

 

[eadavis80]

I'm all for making starters, but if you're making 20 gallons of IPA beer, it might just be easier to have 4 packs of 05 on hand, rehydrate and call it good. That will be fair amount of steps/time/DME to do that. But hey - if you want to, that's cool.

 

[kh54s10]

Stepped starter, a starter large enough for both brews, or multiple containers of liquid or dry yeast. Your choice.