The craft behind the vessel
Not all glasses are made the same way. The borosilicate tumblers in this range are hand-blown, meaning each one is shaped individually with minor variations in form are part of the point. The Suna teacup is Japanese stoneware made by a family in Nagoya, finished with a traditional sand-like glaze passed down through generations. The gaiwans draw from Chinese tea culture, where the shape is specifically designed for both brewing and drinking from the same vessel. These are pieces that come with a story, even if you're just using them for your morning cup.
Hot, iced, or both
Double-walled borosilicate glass holds temperature in both directions: hot tea stays hot, iced tea stays cold, and neither will sweat on your desk. The ribbed tumblers and the matcha tumbler work across both. The milk glass tumblers are designed specifically for iced drinks, built for slower summer afternoons. And the gaiwans and stoneware teacup are best for hot tea, where the brewing ritual is part of the pleasure.
FAQ
What is borosilicate glass?
Borosilicate glass is a type of glass made with boron trioxide, which makes it significantly more resistant to thermal shock than standard glass. It can handle sudden changes in temperature without cracking, making it safe for both hot and iced drinks. Most of T2's glass tumblers are made from borosilicate glass.
Are T2 glass tumblers dishwasher safe?
Most borosilicate glass tumblers in this range are dishwasher and microwave safe, including the double-walled ribbed tumblers and the matcha tumbler. The Suna stoneware teacup and some decorative pieces recommend gentle hand washing. Always check the individual product page for care instructions.
What is a gaiwan and how do I use it?
A gaiwan is a traditional Chinese vessel used for both brewing and drinking tea. It consists of a bowl, lid, and saucer. To brew, add loose leaf tea and water, use the lid to hold the leaves back as you drink, or decant into another cup. It's particularly suited to green teas, white teas, and oolongs where you want to observe and control the steeping closely.
Can I use glass tumblers for iced tea?
Yes, the double-walled borosilicate tumblers are well suited to iced drinks and won't sweat or lose their chill quickly. The Milk glass tumblers are designed specifically for iced drinks. Check the individual product page for temperature guidance on each piece.