How to Use and Handle a Tea Scoop｜Suggested Procedures for Measuring Tea Leaves and Filling the Teapot

In Chinese and Taiwanese tea ceremonies, a "chaze" (tea scoop) is a tool used to measure out tea leaves and transfer them into a teapot or tea vessel. It is designed to handle tea leaves without touching them directly, allowing for a clean transfer into the pot.

Historically, a tea implement called a "ze" (則) was documented in the "Four Pieces of Equipment" chapter of Lu Yu's *The Classic of Tea* (Tang Dynasty) and described as a tool for measuring powdered tea. This article proposes one way to use a tea scoop in a modern tea setting, along with a suggested procedure for its handling.

1. Basic Role and Historical Background of Modern Tea Scoops

In the product specifications of SEKIMONO, a tea scoop is defined as "a tool for measuring tea leaves and transferring them into a teapot or tea vessel."

While a "ze" was described as an instrument for measuring powdered tea in Lu Yu's *The Classic of Tea*, the tea scoops used in modern gongfu tea and Taiwanese tea ceremonies are specifically used for handling loose-leaf (dried) tea and transferring it into teapots.

2. Suggested Procedure for Transferring Tea Leaves (A SEKIMONO Editorial Suggestion)

At SEKIMONO, we suggest the following procedure for transferring tea leaves.

• ① Measuring the tea leaves: Using a tea spoon or the tea scoop, measure out a single serving of dried tea leaves from a tea canister or bag. This is a practice that avoids handling the leaves directly with your hands.
• ② Observing the tea leaves: We also suggest taking a moment to observe the shape and color of the leaves in the scoop before use.
• ③ Filling the teapot: Bring the tip of the tea scoop close to the opening of the teapot, tilt it gently, and use a tea spoon or similar tool to slide the leaves into the pot.

3. Dimensions and Price List for the 7 SEKIMONO Copper Tea Scoops

All SEKIMONO tea scoops are crafted in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China, and feature hand-finished copper with a surface patina. The length and width vary by model.

Model Name	Price	Dimensions	Design Concept
Xun You Jing	$79	Approx. 112 × 52 mm	Inspired by mountain and water scenery
Mei Ran Jiang Nan	$79	Approx. 157 × 54 mm	Inspired by plum blossoms and branches
Jin Chan Tu Rui	$89	Approx. 159 × 52 mm	Sculptural design inspired by the Three-Legged Toad
Zhu Shi	$79	Approx. 160 × 58 mm	Design inspired by bamboo and stone
Shi Liu	$79	Approx. 161 × 58 mm	Rounded design inspired by pomegranate
Jin Yu Man Tang	$89	Approx. 170 × 66 mm	Rounded contours and intricate detail
Ming Yue Qing Feng	$79	Approx. 185 × 49 mm	Smooth surfaces with subtle undulations

4. Tips for Choosing the Right Size

When selecting a tea scoop, please check the size of the opening (diameter) of your teapot and compare it with the width and length of the scoop's tip. Smaller teapots are generally better suited to the 112mm (Xun You Jing) model for better maneuverability, while standard teapots often pair well with models in the 157–161mm range.

5. Aftercare

After use, wipe away any tea dust or moisture with a soft cloth and store in a well-ventilated area. Please avoid using abrasive cleaners, metal scouring pads, or dishwashers.