Myths or rules that are not set in stone.
You must never cut the fleece ends.
Actually if the locks are long enough, then cutting the tips ends about ½ inch can save you a great deal of time instead of flicking the locks to get out the chaff and other debris. This can help eliminate those nasty neps when you sometimes overcard fine fleece. You just need to make a judgment call for yourself—compare the time it takes to flick each lock with the time to snip the tip ends. If you will still have at least 2 ½ to 3 inches after cutting, then it may be the best use of your time.
You must thoroughly presoak and wash fleece before dyeing.
Actually one of the most fun ways to dye fleece is a crowded pot. You can get rainbow colors or gradations of the same color. Just stuff in the unwashed fleece in a layer about 1 inch deep, pour water down the side of the pot while holding the fleece up and then squirt on your dye stock. Continue building up these layers using the same colors of dye stock solution until close to the top of the pot. Cover and bring up to heat for at least 30 minutes. Wonderful rainbows will appear.
You must never change the water temperature when handling wet fleece.
Actually if the rinse water is as warm as or warmer than the current water temperature, there should be no problem. Felting generally does occur when you shock hot fleece with cold water even without abrasion. But warm fleece can be safely put into hot water.