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Gongfu Setup Checklist

A concise but practical checklist for assembling a Gongfu tea table that works for real brewing.

The short answer: A working Gongfu setup needs a brewer, tea, hot water, a place to pour the full infusion, cups, and a spill plan. Everything else is an upgrade, not a requirement.

Buyer path

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If this guide matches your use case, move to the current Tealibere page and compare real product photos, sizes, materials, and fit before deciding.

Compare on TealibereSupports readers who want compatible pieces chosen together.

Give readers a decision-ready checklist without turning it into a ceremonial script.

Compatibility matters

A 120ml gaiwan, 200ml pitcher, and two small cups make sense together. A large teapot, tiny pitcher, and oversized cups fight each other. Match capacity before matching color.

The first-session test

Before calling a setup complete, brew one tea from start to finish. Notice what slows you down: grip, pouring target, water disposal, cup size, or leaf cleanup. That friction tells you the next upgrade.

Buyer checklist

QuestionWhat to check
BrewGaiwan or small teapot sized for short infusions.
ServeFairness pitcher if cups do not hold the full infusion or if serving others.
Manage waterTray, bowl, or safe surface for rinse water and drips.

Common mistakes

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FAQ

What is the minimum Gongfu checklist?

Tea, hot water, a small brewer, and a cup that can hold the full infusion. A pitcher and tray make the experience cleaner and more shareable.

Should all pieces match?

Matching is optional. Capacity, comfort, and clean pouring matter more than a perfectly matched look.