Antique is something that is at least a hundred years old, so when you think of Antique teapots, these are usually vintage or just old, but every year, a generation of them moves into the actual 'antique' category. Don't worry, while most use this term for any old fashioned style or vintage type teapot, eventually it will actually become one.

There are a number of people who love this type of teapot, and there are still a number to choose from as well. They come in all sorts of styles, like Oriental, English and some that are ceramic and porcelain. You will even find some so breathtaking you will want to avoid putting tea in them, and instead place them on display. You can find these anywhere form garage sales, to antique shops, auctions and most commonly estate sales.

Over the years, the Japanese have been making teapots for their tea for more thousands of years and are considered experts in this. They have a large number of ceremonies that are designed for drinking tea, and there is a specific pot designed for each of the occasions. Since there are a number of styles and designs in addition to types of pots, it will give you the chance to grab a number of different options. It is common to find a Japanese teapot will consist of cast iron which is called Tetsubin and is an older yet durable type of material. This goes back to the 17th century and was used for teapots in the home, and has helped to create some of the most amazing teapots. These Tetsubin pots are glazed to keep your tea tasting great, and not giving off a strange flavor.

What is a Yixing teapot you might ask? Well, Yixing teapots are clay teapots that go as far back as 15th century China, and is made from Yixing clay, in the providence of Jiangsu in Eastern China. This type of teapot was actually a traditional style used to brew tea, and originated in this country. They are of simple designs, and don't have a lot of the intricate patterns that you may find on porcelain or ceramic teapots, but the are still stylish in their simplicity.

While you might think that they would be created in Yixing, you would be incorrect. They are actually made in Dingshy but they do fall under the Yixing administration. This is a very popular tourist spot, and their Yixing Zisha Number 1 Factory has the most clay in the region.

There are many different examples of all three of these types of teapots online, with many historical resources, and retail outlets. All three of these types would make a fine addition to your home's dcor, and be the center of attention at any party. While many would consider setting these aside for admiration, some of them are still quite functional and can be used to make tea on a regular basis.

Learn more about Teapots. Stop by Mike Smith's site where you can find out all about Teapots and learn about the different types and styles.

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While there are many different styles and models of teapots, they are usually made from cast iron, glass, or ceramic. While ceramic is a little bit different than glass as far as how it is made, it can be considered basically the same. There are pros and cons to using all of these different kinds of tea pots.

If you want a teapot for serving your guests, then you should choose glass or ceramic. There are an abundance of different style options, with oriental styles, decanters and floral decorations being some of the more popular designs. You can probably find one to fit in with any decor. The biggest problem with glass and ceramic is that although they ARE durable, they don't hold up to extreme temperature changes, and direct heat from gas stoves, or where the heating element is exposed. What people usually do for these types of teapots is prep the tea in the ceramic or glass, then pour the hot water into it from some other source that was heated on the stove.

Another item that proves to be difficult with the ceramic and glass teapot is that they won't remain heated for very long, unless the tea is quickly consumed. The other option is to have something to keep the teapot warm; otherwise the liquid will quickly cool as well.

This becomes a considerable hassle so many turn to metal tea posts, with a focus on cast iron. When you use a cast iron teapot, a number of advantages are quickly noticed. But even with these advantages, there are some disadvantages. Cast iron as you might know is a thick and heavy type of metal that can hold a number of heating sources. When a user is out on a campsite, they can place these sturdy pots onto the fire, which is impossible to do with ceramic or glass teapots. Since they are crafted from metal, they do keep their heat and it is more evenly distributed. In some cases the heat can last for up to an hour from the time it is removed from a heat source.

There are some disadvantages to cast iron though. The biggest is that this type of pot can be very heavy, especially if it is larger in size. Since it is constructed from metal, the entire unit can become dangerously hot and you must use caution when handling it. Many users also complain about the look of these tea pots as they are very unsightly and won't look all that spectacular at your tea party. Then again, if you are a practical person, you won't be throwing these parties anyway and you will find that a cast iron pot is your top choice.

All three types of teapots can be found anywhere. For the best prices you can find, consider shopping online. There are a number of great websites that are dedicated to these pots, and if you are looking for the best deal check out Amazon.com. Not only will you find the best prices, but you can get actual customer reviews, and get free shipping on some orders.

Looking to find the best deal on Teapots, then visit www.GlassCeramicTeapots.com to find the best advice on Glass Teapots.

categories: Teapots,home accessories,home appliances,food,drink

Posted under Tea

Sometimes you can't justify throwing a full blown party and sometimes people have plans in the evening so if you are looking for a mid afternoon social occasion other than lunch, a tea-party can be the best option.

It can be as simple as just inviting your friends around for tea but if you're looking for something more extravagant, why not try these tips;

Choose a day, obviously, then depending on the time of year it might be better to host the party at different times of the day, for example at Christmas time people will want to catch up after time apart and might spend all evening chatting away, in this case get some finger foods at the ready. A tea party would usually take place between 10am and 4pm otherwise you are technically having people for breakfast or dinner!

The size of your party is also quite important, if you want an intimate atmosphere; keep to around 8 but any more than that any you will need to consider providing food and possibly a buffet. A large group almost defeats the object of a tea party.

Depending on the time of the year you don't have to hold a party indoors, you could easily hold it in the garden or on a terrace in the summer, alternatively in a park or on a beach if you want to be unconventional, but just remember that you will have to find some way to heat the tea.

It is nice to have a bite to eat with tea but unless you are organising a luncheon try to keep it finger food. Pastries and scones compliment tea nicely; cakes and deserts are even nicer but be careful not to eat too much.

Obviously the tea itself is an important part of the party but try and avoid brewing one single pot of unusual tea, not everyone enjoys a mint herbal ginseng blend. Simple tea is the safest option but it is nice to provide alternatives. The tea is best served out of a teapot so make sure you have one of these and some nice cups and saucers to match. A bowl of sugar and jug of milk could be handy too.

The best cups and saucers to take are delicate ceramic rather than pointless cold cups or paper cups.

Posted under Tea