This exquisite tea knife, hand-forged by Malaysian master Tan Kae Hyeok specially for Xin An Chu, is now available once again. This time, we present the updated fifth generation of this masterpiece, refined in both artistry and practicality.
1. The curvature of the gripping point has been adjusted for better ergonomics, ensuring an easy and comfortable hold without the need for the cord wrap of the previous edition.
2. The blade width and tip shape have been refined for smoother insertion into tea cakes, minimizing leaf breakage while maintaining safety.
3. The sheath has been upgraded to a double-layer hemp cloth pouch, blending East Asian aesthetics with portability. (Sheaths in four colors are shipped randomly; color selection is not available.)
(Updated in June 2025)
This tea knife hammered by Malaysian master craftsman Tan Kae Hyeok is a commissioned version of Xin An Chu.
Tan Kae Hyeok is a traditional seal carving artist and also forges seal carving knives. Being both a tea enthusiast and a master craftsman, he comprehends the essence of tea tools much deeper than common blacksmiths. Thanks to his talent for craftsmanship and creativity, and his passion for tea brewing, we are able to have this functional piece of art.
After being constantly improved in both functionality and aesthetics, this excellent fourth generation of the design has been achieved. The flat shank gives comfortable and secure feel in the hand; together with the hardness of the material, the moderate thickness of the blade makes it easy to handle and hard enough to break any tea, even the most tightly compressed cakes; the wrapped spot at the lower end helps to stabilize, all these make it far superior than many tools you can find in the market.
Handcrafted Tea Knife by Tan Kae Hyeok
Knife-blade: stainless steel AISI 304#, food grade.
Sheath: hemp cloth.
Length: approx.160mm
Width: approx. 12mm
Thickness: approx. 2mm
Weight: approx. 35g