I was inspired by the women of the 1920's whose search for independence and a public expression for their creativity led them to open tea rooms in their living rooms. Prohibition had a profound effect on the creation of tea rooms dotting the American countryside at that time. Alcohol consumption was viewed with disfavor by the teetotaling middle class who, in their new motorcars, were happy to patronize these establishments. Some tea rooms borrowed the abbreviated "T" from the temperance campaign, calling themselves T-houses. I liked that historical significance of the "T."
My blog is the place on the web where I share my latest news and views, such as what I collect, where I travel, my home and much more along with lots of my photographs. A blog is a web diary in reverse chronological order. It is updated regularly so there is always something new to view. Plus, you can participate in the process by leaving a comment on any post that moves you to do so.
No, I leave that up to the professionals, which would be my tea purveyor located right here in Connecticut.
I drink herbal tea exclusively because I can't tolerate caffeine. A while back, my favorite Rooibos blend disappeared from store shelves and after some research, I discovered it was discontinued. I made it my mission to recreate that tasty red tea. Working with my tea purveyor until we got it just right, Susan's Blend is even better than my old favorite. And you won't find it sold anywhere but here.
The Rooibos plant is a small bush that only grows in South Africa. Its name comes from the Afrikaans word for "red bush." Rooibos (pronounced roy-boss) tea has a distinctive red color and a unique sweet, nutty flavor. It has numerous healthful qualities due to its high level of antioxidants, lack of caffeine and low tannin levels.
Herbal tea is not technically "tea" at all. It is a "tisane" which is an herbal infusion. Black teas, along with green and white teas, come from the botanical, Camellia sinensis, which contains caffeine. Herbal infusions are made from botanicals not related to Camellia sinensis, which makes them naturally caffeine free.
Loose tea leaves will generally brew a better, more flavorful cup because hot water can circulate around the leaves more than in a confined tea bag. Some high-quality tea bags do contain whole leaves, but most are made up of very small leaf fragments, called fannings. These tend to get stale very quickly allowing essential oils in the leaves to evaporate.
Start with fresh, cold water and bring it to a full boil. Never use hot tap water or water that has already boiled as this will result in a flat tasting tea. Fill your teapot with the boiling water to warm it for a minute and then discard the water. Add one level teaspoon of loose tea per cup into the infuser, pour boiling water over the leaves and steep for approximately 3-5 minutes, depending on the type of tea.
These Japanese porcelain teapots are both beautiful and functional. Each teapot comes with a stainless steel infusing basket which nests inside and a stainless steel lid that slides on and off for easy cleaning. They're dishwasher safe, don't drip and are just right for brewing all loose leaf teas. The shiny, high quality glazes don't scratch under normal use. Brews 15 ounces, or two cups, and if you use really good tea leaves (like the ones offered on this site), you'll be able to pour more boiling water over the same leaves for a second pot. Need I say more?
Simply click the ADD TO CART button below the item you want and it will be placed in your shopping cart. If you like, you may continue shopping. When you are done, click the View Cart image at the top right of the page to go to your shopping cart. From there, click "Proceed to checkout" and you will be whisked off to PayPal to complete your transaction.
Some vintage items on my site are limited, one of a kind pieces; that's what makes them so special. When one has been purchased, I make every effort to mark it sold as soon as possible. In the event you have chosen to purchase something that is already spoken for, you can be sure I will promptly issue you a PayPal refund.
Payment is made via PayPal by either having a PayPal account or by using a major credit card through PayPal. If you are a Connecticut resident, you will also be charged 6% sales tax.
Priority Mail or Parcel Post with Delivery Confirmation are T-Party's preferred methods of shipment. Insurance is strongly recommended as T-Party is not responsible for breakage by the shipper. Local customers are always welcome to forgo shipping and pick up their order from my studio. If you choose to pick up your order, I will issue you a PayPal refund for the freight.
Your satisfaction is my top priority. If you have a problem with a transaction, email me and I will do my absolute best to resolve the issue. Refund requests must be filed within 3 days of receipt of goods. No returns will be accepted on opened tea or used tea accessories. Shipping charges are the responsibility of the purchaser and will not be refunded. All returns must be insured and packed securely to assure safe arrival within ten days of filing for a refund.
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