Chemex Coffee Makers Have Been Brewing a Superior Cup of Joe Since 1941

The Chemex coffee maker was invented in 1941 by a chemist named Dr. Schlumbohm. He set out to simplify the process of brewing the perfect cup of coffee, but also wanted to make sure the brewing vessel would be a thing of beauty. The hourglass shape of the Chemex carafe was inspired by Bauhaus design. Schlumbohm used non-porous borosilicate laboratory glass to make sure the brewing vessel would never alter the flavor of the coffee brewed within, added a wooden collar held together with a rawhide tie to protect your hands, and invented a double bonded paper filter for a perfect extraction every time. In 1943, the Museum of Modern Art displayed the Chemex as one of the best-designed products of the year, and these beautiful carafes have been kept in the permanent collections of some of the most prestigious museums in the world ever since.

Select your favorite whole bean coffee and grind it to medium coarse. Open a Chemex paper filter into a cone shape so one side has three layers, and place it into the top of the carafe with the thick portion covering the pouring spout. Put one rounded tablespoon of ground coffee into the filter for every 5 oz. of coffee you want to brew. Bring water to a boil and let it cool slightly to about 200°F. Pour a small amount over the grounds to wet them, and wait about 30 seconds for them to "bloom." Then slowly pour the remaining hot water over the grounds in a circular or back-and-forth motion, keeping the water level well below the top of the carafe. Once brewed, lift the filter and grounds out and discard, then pour your freshly made coffee into your favorite mug and enjoy!