When brewing gongfu style tea is infused throughout many infusions. It can be challenging to keep track of how many steeps you’ve enjoyed, especially when reading or doing other activities at the same time. Some people use D20 dice or other tools to count as they go. Years ago Crimson Lotus Tea sold beaded counters that were inspired by ranger beads used for pace counting. I decided to give making my own a try so that I could gift them to members of my Patreon.
These gongfu steep counters are easy to make using supplies that you can find at the craft store. I ordered keychains with my logo from Sticker Mule, but any keychain ring will do. I found that plastic pony beads work best, but you can use any bead that can fit on both strands of paracord. The creative color and pattern possibilities are endless!
Gongfu Tea Steep Counter
A beaded counter to keep track of steeps while gongfu brewing tea
Materials
- keychain ring
- paracord
- pony beads
Tools
- scissors
- lighter
Instructions
1. Cut a 10-inch long section of paracord and remove the inner core (usually white in color).
2. Tie paracord onto a keychain ring in a lark's head knot, making sure to keep the two strands even in length
3. Slide 10 pony beads onto both strands of paracord
4. Knot the end and trim as desired. Leave a little space for the beads to slide up and down easily. Singe the ends with a lighter to prevent fraying.
If you follow this tutorial to make your own beaded steep counter, I’d love to see the results. Tag me on Instagram @teaformeplease and I’ll reshare your post.
Do you use a steep counter while making tea? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
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I love this idea, Nicole! Super cute and useful – definitely going to try this!
Thank you! I’d love to see how yours turns out.