Bring fresh, cold water to a boil. Once the water is boiled, remove from heat, and let it sit for a few minutes. Meanwhile, fill a teapot with hot tap water to warm it up.
Do the same thing with your teacups. Empty the pot (and cups), toss in a teaspoon of tea leaves for each cup you are making, and fill pot with boiled water. Let steep for 2 to 3 minutes for small-leaf black teas and green teas, 4 to 5 minutes for full-leaf black tea, and 7 to 10 minutes for oolong tea; pour the tea, using a strainer to catch renegade leaves. Don't oversteep, or the brew will turn bitter. Loose tea will keep for up to 1 year if it's stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot.
Created on ... November 20, 2006