How to Use a Gaiwan to Brew Tea｜3-Finger Method

The gaiwan(盖碗), a traditional Chinese tea brewing vessel, is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. It allows tea enthusiasts to brew tea efficiently and observe the tea’s color and the graceful unfurling of the leaves. However, improper use can lead to burned fingers, so learning the correct technique is essential. This guide will show you how to use a gaiwan effectively, including the proper grip and key precautions.

To purchase a set, you can find the Gaiwan Tea Set from here.

The Structure

A gaiwan consists of three parts:

Lid (盖) – Symbolizes the heavens.
Bowl (碗身) – Represents humanity.
Saucer (碗托) – Signifies the earth.

This symbolic design highlights the harmony between heaven, earth, and humans.

The Three-Finger Grip Method

It is simple to learn how to use a gaiwan. Start with the three-finger method. The three-finger method ensures safe and smooth operation of the gaiwan. Follow these steps to brew tea like a pro:

Add Tea Leaves
Place the appropriate amount of tea leaves into the bowl. For most teas, 6–8 grams works well.

2.Pour Hot Water
Add water at 90–100°C (194–212°F), ensuring the water level doesn’t exceed the lid’s edge.

3. Wait for the Tea to Steep
Allow the tea to steep for a few seconds, depending on the type of tea.

4. Tilt the Lid
Use your thumb and index finger to tilt the lid slightly, creating a small opening. This prevents leaves from escaping when pouring the tea. For pouring with your right hand, position the opening at 9 o’clock. For your left hand, position the opening at 3 o’clock. Make sure the opening is not higher than the edge of the lid.

4. Tilt the Lid
Use your thumb and index finger to tilt the lid slightly, creating a small opening. This prevents leaves from escaping when pouring the tea. For pouring with your right hand, position the opening at 9 o’clock. For your left hand, position the opening at 3 o’clock. Make sure the opening is not higher than the edge of the lid.

5. Grip the Gaiwan

Rest your index finger on the lid’s knob, pointing toward the opening. Or rest your index finger in the lid’s center knob when the water is not too hot.

Pinch the rim of the bowl with your thumb and middle finger. Avoid gripping the bowl’s body to prevent burns. For right-handed pouring, place your thumb at the 6 o’clock position and your middle finger at 12 o’clock. For left-handed pouring, reverse the positions: thumb at 12 o’clock and middle finger at 6 o’clock.

6. Pour the Tea

Tilt the gaiwan toward a fairness cup, tea pet or directly into a teacup. Adjust your wrist angle as needed to control the pouring speed until all the tea is poured out.

7. Repeat from step 2 for multiple infusions

Tips to Avoid Burns

While learning how to use a gaiwan, keep the following tips in mind to avoid burns.

Make sure the opening is not higher than the edge of the lid. Don’t place your index finger directly on the lid’s center knob, as it may become too hot.
Always grip the rim of the bowl, not its body.
If the lid or bowl becomes too hot, separate the parts and let them cool before resuming.
Practice makes perfect! Handling a hot gaiwan can be tricky at first, so take your time to find a comfortable grip.

Why Use a Gaiwan?

Beyond its beauty and symbolism, learning how to use a gaiwan allows you to appreciate the tea’s full essence—its aroma, color, and texture. Whether you’re brewing ancient puerh or Jingmai black tea, the gaiwan deepens your connection to the tea and its story.

Mastering how to use a gaiwan may take practice, but it transforms tea brewing into an artful and mindful ritual. It is really one of the best way for us to brew tea. Besides the clay pot method, the 3 finger method remains our favorite. Ready to try? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below!

To learn more about how to break the tea cake before you brew the tea, you can read—— 1-Minute Guide: How to Break a Tea Cake Like a Pro

How to Use A Gaiwan to Brew Tea｜3-Finger Method