In 1908 Thomas Sullivan invented the Tea Bag. He had a coffee and tea
shop in New York. From his shop he shipped his tea samples to clients
around the world. He put his tea leaves in bags . These bags were
hand-sewn out of silk muslin. He used these bags because it was cheaper
than using the more expensive tins. His clients thought this was a new way
of brewing their tea. So they put the bags in boiling water. Thus the tea
bag was invented.
In 1935 a tag was attached to a string on the tea bag. The tag was used
for advertising the brand of tea.
Then in 1952 Thomas Lipton patented the four sided tea bag. Known as
the Flo-Thru tea bag.
Eventually a sewing machine was invented to take the place of hand
sewing the silk bags. Also a gauze paper was invented to replace the silk
bag.
Other uses for tea bags
Tenderizer
To tenderize cheaper cuts of meat, marinate or cook your meat in tea. The
tannins in the tea will tenderize the meat. It will make the meat more
tender and oh so tasty.
Furniture Polish Remover
Just boil a couple of tea bags in a quart of water. Let this cool. Soak a
soft cloth in tea. Wring out the moisture. Wipe away the dirt and old
polish. Buff and if you feel you need to use polish after, it is up to
you.
Plant Food
Use a little weak tea to water your plants. This will help them grow.
Dye
Dye white lace in a solution of cold brewed tea. You will get beige, ecru,
or ivory depending on how long you leave lace in solution. Do not rinse.
Dry. You can also dye fabric in this solution. Only use hot water (if
fabric can be washed in this temp.) This method has been around a very
long time. It was first used to hide stains on linens. You can experiment
with different herb based teas also.
Use Hibiscus for red tones, black teas for soft browns and cream colors.
Just remember, the longer you leave fabric in and the more tea you use,
the darker the color.
So have fun and Drink Tea.
