In a bowl, mix 1½ cups warm water with 1½ tsp sugar. Add yeast and stir. Let sit in a warm area for 10 minutes until foamy.

In a very large mixing bowl, combine 6 cups warm water, ¼ cup sugar, salt, and shortening.

Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and begin mixing in the 14 cups of flour gradually. Stir and knead until combined.

Slowly add the remaining 3 cups of flour while kneading until dough is smooth, elastic, and not sticky.

Transfer dough to a greased bowl. Flip the dough to coat the top with oil. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Punch down dough. Use a sharp knife to divide into loaf or bun portions.

Shape and place into greased bread pans. Cover with a towel and let rise for another hour.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until tops are golden brown (check at 40 minutes).

Remove from oven and brush tops with melted butter.

Cool on wire racks.

Store in airtight bags, or freeze for later use.