Different types of tea release their flavor compounds at different rates: delicate green teas reach their peak after about 3 minutes, while robust black teas often need closer to 5, and strong herbal infusions may benefit from the full 7. Steeping too briefly can leave the flavor underdeveloped, while leaving the leaves in too long can result in bitterness.
When it comes to brewing the perfect cup of tea, timing is everything — and that’s where a classic 3-, 5-, or 7-minute hourglass becomes an essential tool rather than just a charming accessory. An hourglass brings a touch of tradition and mindfulness to the process, reminding us to slow down, pay attention, and enjoy the subtle art of tea-making.
I bought a Küchenprofi Tea Timer set (see: https://www.kuchenprofiusa.com/products/kuchenprofi-tea-timer-sand-set). The hourglasses are really nice, but the manufacturer doesn’t provide a stand for them, so they tend to roll around everywhere.
This small holder is about the size and shape of a salt and pepper stand. It has space for all three hourglasses, and you can easily take it out of the tea cabinet and start the desired timer, either individually or while it’s still in the holder.
The piece consists of two parts: a base and a handle. The parts are connected by a Ø4 mm brass tube, which should be glued into the holes in the parts using epoxy. Before gluing, it’s advisable to roughen the surface of the tube with a file or coarse sandpaper in the section that will be glued inside the hole.
You can print it from any material you like. The required STL files can be downloaded here: https://www.printables.com/model/1453448-tea-timer-stand-hourglass-holder