In Central Asia, the word chapan traditionally refers to an embroidered robe, a symbol of warmth, status, and hospitality. Yet in Serhiy Stepchuk’s workshop in central Ukraine, the chapan has taken on a new form: A finely crafted wooden tea tray that embodies connection, tradition, and respect.
I met Serhiy Stepchuk, a Ukrainian artisan, father, and tea enthusiast, whose work left a deep impression on me. I was judging at Tea Masters Cup; Korea and I saw these beautiful handmade tea tables, which were being used by one of the participants. I heard their story and asked how I could support them.
Eight years ago, he and his wife built their first tea tray by hand and opened a tea club in Kharkiv, united by their love for handmade goods and the culture of tea. They studied woodworking and sourced their own tools to refine their skills.
What they created was more than just a tea tray. It became a symbol of their craftsmanship. It embodies the culture and tea traditions of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan, where tea gatherings are acts of hospitality accompanied by a chapan, symbolizing dignity and care.
Due to the war, Serhiy and his family had to relocate their workshop to central Ukraine. Yet, they remain undeterred as Serhiy said, “We believe in a better future and we continue to work as before.”
Today, the spirit of their craftsmanship lives on in each creation, carried through a careful, hands-on process that honors tradition and detail. This beautiful chapan goes through six main stages that are done entirely by hand. They also create dish cabinets, furniture, and storage boxes for pu-erh. Recently, they started sewing bags specially designed for tea trays.
Their material of choice, alder wood (Alnus), is selected for its water resistance, heat tolerance, and delicate fiber structure. Each tray is protected with a mix of vegetable oils and hard wax, making them eco-friendly and resilient against moisture, heat, and time.
I purchased several trays for myself. Holding one feels like holding a story of survival, of passion, of tea culture. I knew immediately that their work needed to be shared beyond Ukraine.
They love working in the workshop, and their children enjoy helping them too. For Serhiy, this is more than a profession, it is a way of life and a legacy in the making. One handcrafted chapan at a time.
The Process of Chapan Making
Drying: The wood is naturally dried to ensure stability and prevent cracking.
Shaping: Large wood blocks are cut and shaped into the base form of the tea tray.
Milling: Decorative patterns are carved onto the surface using milling tools or CNC machines.
Triple Sanding: The tray is carefully sanded in multiple stages to achieve a smooth, touch-friendly finish.
Quality Control: Each piece is thoroughly inspected to ensure it meets structural and aesthetic standards.
Finishing: The final tray is coated with natural oils and waxes to enhance durability and bring out the wood’s character.
Plan to Attend or Participate in World Tea Expo, March 23-25, 2026
To learn about other key developments, trends, issues, hot topics and products within the global tea community, plan to attend World Tea Expo, March 23-25, 2026 in Las Vegas, co-located with Bar & Restaurant Expo. Visit WorldTeaExpo.com.
To book your sponsorship or exhibit space at World Tea Expo, or to inquire about advertising and sponsorship opportunities at World Tea News, contact:
Ellainy Karaboitis-Christopoulos, Business Development Manager, Questex
Phone: +1-212-895-8493; Email: [email protected]
Looking for professional tea education, certifications, and more? Visit World Tea Academy and register for courses today!
Also, be sure to stay connected with World Tea Expo on social media for details and insights about the event. Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.