Tea Glasses

Figure A

We typically think of drinking tea from a traditional cup and saucer. Today there are many other choices, including some inspired by the great tea cultures of faraway lands:

• Bright colors, rich patterns and ornate gilding are all part of the packaging in the newest trend in tea drinking (figure A). While most Americans drink their tea from a cup, these exotic and heat resistant tea glasses are seeping into Western culture from places as distant as Morocco.
• Next to water, tea is the most popular beverage in the world and brightly painted glasses only add to its appeal. Since the glasses are as vivid as they are practical, consider displaying them in an area where light will filter through, such as in front of a window or in a lighted glass case. For a twist, use them as vases or add a tea light to better reflect their lush decorations.
• Store pieces in matching tea caddies or the sturdy boxes in which they are sold, which have compartments for safekeeping.

Figure B

Chai, a spiced tea with milk, has been served for hundreds of years in India in cups that are generally glazed on the inside but not the outside, which makes them easier to hold. These are now turning up in American coffee houses and homes (figure B).

Figure C

Using these glasses to drink tea elevates it to a more ceremonial level or celebratory event rather than drinking out of an old juice glass or coffee cup.

Make your own tea glasses by first cleaning heavy ones that can withstand the heat of the beverage. Then use etching cream and stickers (or painter's tape) to create unique designs (figure C).

Resources
chai cups (Model #: Kasora AC87)
Pottery-like cups available in Blue, Orange, Stripes and Water Waves.
Thompson's Fine Teas
2062 South Delaware
San Mateo, CA 94403
Phone: 650-572-9853
Toll Free Phone: 800-830-8835
Fax: 650-572-9857
Email: info@fineteas.com
URL: www.fineteas.com

tea glasses (all glass items)
Indigo Arts
Website: www.indigoarts.com
Guests
Tony Fisher
Representative, Indigo Arts
153 North 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 215-922-4041
Toll Free Phone: 888-463-4278
Email: indigofamily@indigoarts.com
URL: www.indigoarts.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Design : Episode SDN-108
•	Creative Cork
•	In Sink
•	Glamourous Lampshades
•	Tea Glasses