It is the continuous transformation during daily use that attracts so many enthusiasts of purple clay Teapots. This ongoing process of change is known as Teapot nurturing.
A new purple clay teapot marks the beginning of a bond between the pot and its owner. To truly appreciate a teapot, one must not only know how to use it but also how to nurture it.
Many people feel that their teapots do not look as good as others', simply because they have overlooked some key points.
Mud Material
“A tall building rises from the ground,” but first, the foundation must be solid. A poor foundation will result in a precarious structure no matter how high it stands.
The same principle applies to nurturing a teapot; to achieve a well-nourished teapot, one must first learn to distinguish and purchase a teapot made of quality material.
The quality of mud materials on the market varies greatly, with some chemical muds being impossible to nurture properly.
After a year or two, such teapots remain unchanged, while those made from premium materials can be very delicate, showing immediate changes upon contact with boiling water.
A few brews with Tea are enough to make them noticeably smoother. Therefore, collectors pay special attention to the material, seeking out authentic purple clay.
When buying a teapot, one must learn to discern and find trustworthy sellers, as teapots made of inferior materials should be avoided.
Habits
Do not drink tea merely for the sake of nurturing the teapot. Neither the teapot nor the tea will benefit if enjoyed poorly. Drinking tea should be an enjoyable experience.
Nurture your teapot with a calm mind. Do not obsessively polish the teapot while drinking tea, using a small brush to constantly scrub it, or pouring tea over it excessively.
Purple clay teapots have a dual-pore characteristic, absorbing tea infusion. Do not try to force the nurturing process; over time, even without deliberate effort, a well-cared-for teapot will become beautiful. During brewing, just take care to keep the teapot clean and free of stains. Develop good habits.
Avoid Laziness
Some who nurture their teapots believe that leaving leftover tea in the pot helps to nourish it.
However, cold leftover tea has no effect on the teapot. Overnight, it can lead to the accumulation of tea stains and residue, which can be difficult to clean.
After each use, the teapot should be thoroughly cleaned with water.
If not in use for a while, store it in a place that is well-ventilated and away from smoke and oil.
A teapot that has been used consistently over a long period of time undergoes a qualitative change within its structure due to the repeated exposure to tea. It radiates not only the luster of time's passage but also the accumulated essence of tea.
In the gentle flow of time, using the years as tea, what is nurtured is not just the teapot but also one's own heart.
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