□ Container: 10–12″ deep bin with lid; drill 1/8” holes (sides + lid).

□ Base bedding (4‑6″): 60–70% shredded cardboard/paper + 30–40% coco coir/leaf mold; moisten to “wrung-sponge.”

□ Mineral grit: 1–2 tbsp (pulverized eggshells, rock dust, or coffee ground fines).

□ Add worms: ~1 lb red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) per 1‑2 ft³ bin.

□ Start feed: 1 cup finely chopped scraps (bury in a corner).

□ Cover: Add a top layer of dry shredded cardboard as a “blanket.”

□ Airflow: Keep lid cracked/vented; bin temp target 55–77°F (13–25°C).

□ First week: Lift lid daily, quick sniff (should smell earthy), add moisture if bedding feels dry.

□ Label: Date started + worm weight on a piece of tape.