The LHBS gave me this idea, and it seems so obvious that I'm wondering if this is common: using the primary fermenter for the starter (as opposed to using a flask or other vessel), and then just racking the cooled wort onto it. Thoughts?
They brought this up when I mentioned that one of my hesitations about liquid yeast was the introduction of one more possible source of contamination. I do sometimes use liquid yeast (and make starters), but I admit dry yeast has a higher comfort zone for me in that respect.