Questions and a more formal introduction

[Proofman]

I’m in central Arkansas (any other Arkansans in here?). Proofman was a nickname given to me by friends many years ago (alcohol consumption based). I used to live in Alaska and I tried some amazing homebrews up there. It seemed like there were more home brewers there, per capita, than anyplace. That sparked my desire to start brewing. Now I live in an Arkansas dry county!

I’ve already gotten some help in the beginner’s forum. I had a problem with my OG (red ale) last night and went online and did a search for “home brew forum” and that got me here.

When I get home from work this evening, I should see some bubbling in the airlock, correct? Or do I need to give it a couple of days?

Should I sanitize my bottles and bottling bucket a day or two before I suspect it will be ready, or is it OK to sanitize immediately before I bottle (i.e., little dry time)?

Is there a bible of brewing for newbs to get? Something geared toward beginners, or at least useful to us?

 

[rdwj]

When I get home from work this evening, I should see some bubbling in the airlock, correct? Or do I need to give it a couple of days?

Probably, but if there isn't - don't worry for at least a couple days.

Should I sanitize my bottles and bottling bucket a day or two before I suspect it will be ready, or is it OK to sanitize immediately before I bottle (i.e., little dry time)?

Right before is best, but you can do it before

Is there a bible of brewing for newbs to get? Something geared toward beginners, or at least useful to us?

How to Brew by John Palmer

 

[Cheesefood]

Is there a bible of brewing for newbs to get? Something geared toward beginners, or at least useful to us?

The Complete Joy of Homebrewing, by Charlie Papazian. Most people here refer to it as "The Bible".

 

[the_bird]

How To Brew's probably a better manual, but yeah, Papa Charlie wrote the Bible.

 

[user 4295]

Here is a link to John Palmer's free online version of How To Brew. It is a great place to get started.

John

 

[Fiery Sword]

Use Palmer's online guide to feed your homebrewing brain, but read Papazian to enlighten youre homebrewers soul.