One thing to bear in mind is that if you're in the west, it can be hard to find a supplier of the smaller whisks that are required for most nodate- and chabako-sized chawan.
So on balance, it's probably more convenient to buy a chawan of standard size.
Glad to have read all the posts in this thread because they enlightened me to the fact that the cha sen must match the chawan in terms of acceptable fit. I just purchased my first chawan in black because of its striking contrast with the green goodness. It's number 3 at this link: http://www.teachat.com/viewtopic.php?t=8475
Once it's received with its measurements taken and texture noted, I intend to start a thread asking for chasen recommendations because, as a neophyte to matcha, I'd hate getting the wrong size chasen. I'll need some strategy here.
Thanks,
-T
Once it's received with its measurements taken and texture noted, I intend to start a thread asking for chasen recommendations because, as a neophyte to matcha, I'd hate getting the wrong size chasen. I'll need some strategy here.
Thanks,
-T
That is a great bowl, you will be happy!! Congrats!
I have a black matcha bowl and the color combination is stunning
and adds to the enjoyment. Lovely!
I have a black matcha bowl and the color combination is stunning
and adds to the enjoyment. Lovely!
- Victoria -
http://victoriasown.blogspot.com/
http://victoriasown.blogspot.com/
Apr 9th, '09, 10:44
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chamekke
Gorgeous bowl! I am sure you will be very happy with it. This is a kuroraku (black raku) chawan, very classic - and classy. Dare I say, the "little black dress" of tea ceremonytjkoko wrote:Glad to have read all the posts in this thread because they enlightened me to the fact that the cha sen must match the chawan in terms of acceptable fit. I just purchased my first chawan in black because of its striking contrast with the green goodness. It's number 3 at this link: http://www.teachat.com/viewtopic.php?t=8475
And one of the nice things about raku is that it is a natural insulator, so it won't ever be uncomfortably hot against your fingers (when filled with hot water) as some other pottery types can be.Standard chasen will do nicely - you don't have to worry too much about getting the wrong size. It's very difficult to find chasen that aren't standard size.tjkoko wrote:Once it's received with its measurements taken and texture noted, I intend to start a thread asking for chasen recommendations because, as a neophyte to matcha, I'd hate getting the wrong size chasen. I'll need some strategy here.
______________________
"Never trust a man who, when left alone in a room with a tea cosy, doesn't try it on."
- Billy Connolly
"Never trust a man who, when left alone in a room with a tea cosy, doesn't try it on."
- Billy Connolly
Re: Need recommendatons
I would say yes. But you can sift your matcha with a little strainer.tjkoko wrote:Are both the matcha sifter and whisk keeper as shown at Hibiki-an recommended?
Apr 10th, '09, 00:28
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A bunch of us seem to have found the same solution, a tetsubin stainless steel infuser basket. The shape actually works better than the Matcha screen/tin contraption IMHO because the shape of the infuser keeps all the matcha centered while a flat matcha screen does not.
Plus the infuser is often "free" if you have one around while the matcha screen can run 15-20 USD plus shipping.
If you do not have one, they can often be picked up at Asian markets.
Plus the infuser is often "free" if you have one around while the matcha screen can run 15-20 USD plus shipping.
If you do not have one, they can often be picked up at Asian markets.
blah blah blah SENCHA blah blah blah!!!
Apr 10th, '09, 08:39
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You could use a small bamboo or wood spatula/spoon. You could just use a spoon as well.tjkoko wrote:THanks for the reply. And what's used for 'pushing' the matcha thru the strainer? Like a tongue blade that the doctor uses? Say 'Aaahhhhhhhhh'!
And "centered", what's that term mean?
Centered in a literal sense. Think of a flat screen versus more of a curved screen. As you push the matcha back and forth on the flat screen, it can simply expand towards the edges of the screen which can then be harder to screen, more areas, and if it gets along the edges it is particularly hard to screen.
With a curved screen (the infuser), the tea never goes to far from center, remains more centered and easier to continue to sift. Takes kess time and effort as a result.
Purists might balk at this however.
Also, the infuser I use fits perfectly, I mean PERFECTLY into a sample tin I have from Upton (which are still available), so it is like I have a matcha screen set.
There is a bit of irony for me in this, I collect Asian tins, yet I do not have an actual cool matcha screen/tin set.
Tin recommendation?
I assume you mean the Tetsubin strainer at Upton. But which tin do you redommend at their website?
Apr 10th, '09, 09:44
Posts: 20891
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Any tetsubin infuser basket will likely work. If you don't have one, you can pick up a similar basket for a few dollars.
This is the sample tin! I get the case and save. The tins are pretty good and are great for sharing teas with others. You can get them elsewhere too, but this is what I have.[/url]
This is the sample tin! I get the case and save. The tins are pretty good and are great for sharing teas with others. You can get them elsewhere too, but this is what I have.[/url]
