How to Choose the Right Coffee Tools for Better Brewing

It isn't always necessary to have a more complex setup to produce better coffee.

It isn't always necessary to have a more complex setup to produce better coffee. Use the right tools to make grinding, espresso brewing and coffee making more consistent and keep your coffee station organized.

It's important to select an equipment that fits the type of coffee that you're making, whether you're interested in purchasing a mortar and pestle for coffee, a WDT tool espresso accessory, or comparing the different types of coffee paper.

Manual Grinding, WDT Mechanics, & Portafilter Sizing

Use of Mortar and Pestle for Coffee

Coffee grinders can be used to manually break up whole beans without a coffee bean grinder, using a mortar and pestle.

Grounding coffee using the mortar and pestle means that you have a direct control over the texture of the ground coffee, but it will take time and effort to get a uniform grind. It suggests not to fill the mortar entirely, but use small amounts.

This technique can be used with some styles of brewing that do not require that the ground be as even as possible. But espresso needs a lot more accuracy in grinding and is a bit more precise, so it is actually better to use a dedicated coffee grinder to prepare espresso.

Even as a manual brewer, a mortar and pestle can be a fascinating tool to add to the coffee collection.

Selecting a WDT Tool for Espresso

This course aims at providing students with the ability to select a WDT tool for Espresso.

WDT tool espresso accessories are meant to be used for evenly distributing coffee grounds within an espresso basket.

WDT is an acronym for Weiss Distribution Technique. The process involves using thin needles to help disperse clumps and to help spread grounds prior to tamping.

There are a number of designs of this WDT that are available at Lastaforest, such as geared spinning, rotary springback, UFO and simpler magnetic tools. Geared spinning model with adjustable needle depth and available in sizes of 51mm, 54mm and 58mm.

If you choose one, consider your portafilter size, needle type, adjustment system and how this tool integrates into your workflow.

Key Considerations for Portafilter Fit

There are several important factors to take into consideration when choosing a WDT tool for your espresso machine.

One of the most crucial things to look at when buying espresso accessories is the size.

According to Lastaforest's compatibility guide, 51mm, 54mm and 58mm are popular portafilter dimensions. But that doesn't mean diameter is the main factor since basket depth, portafilter ears, the shape of the group head and the actual model of the machine can also impact the fit, the company points out.

Please verify your machine model and measure the basket/portafilter before ordering a WDT tool.

This simple action can save you from purchasing an accessory that will not fit properly.

Coffee Paper Filtration, V60 Systems, & Storage Solutions

Choosing the Right Coffee Paper

Choosing the right coffee paper is a crucial step in the journey of making a great cup of coffee.

Coffee paper slows down the filtration and may alter the coffee brewing process.

Currently, Lastaforest is only selling round filter papers with a diameter of either 51mm or 58mm for espresso. The company claims that these filters are constructed of wood pulp and compatible with espresso machines.

Lastaforest also offers V60 filter papers of different sizes for pour-over brewing. Its V60 non-woven filter comes in two sizes: V01 and V02, which are used for various serving sizes.

Be sure to use paper that suits your brewer and not take a chance with any old paper coffee filter.

Workflow Impact & Filter Paper Storage

A few of you may already know, but the effects of coffee filter paper on your workflow can be quite astounding.

The filter should be the correct size and stay in shape while brewing.

There are currently two sizes of Lastaforest's current round espresso papers available: 51mm and 58mm; its coffee filter storage paper is for arranging the compatible papers in an organized and convenient way.

Consider storage when storing multiple types of filter paper. A special holder will prevent the papers from bending and will keep them near the brewing area.

Practical Station Setup & Coffee Tool Organization

How to Setup a Practical Espresso Machine Setup

You don't have to have all the accessories you can get for coffee.

However, it all begins with the basics: The right grinder, espresso machine, scale, tamper, and basket. After getting your basic rack assembled, think about accessories to solve problems.

If clumping or uneven distribution is a part of your preparation, then a WDT tool can be helpful. Use filter paper if it's necessary for your brewing process.

Lastaforest has today three main categories of coffee equipment: WDT tools, tampers and distributors, filter baskets, puck screens, dosing tools, coffee scales, and pour over equipment.

Organizing the Tools for Coffee Service

Coordinating the tools used for coffee service.Organizing the tools for coffee service.

Clean work surface facilitates repetitive brewing tasks.

Have WDT tools, filters, tampers and other accessories within easy reach. When using a fine needle on a WDT tool, always use the designated fine needle storage base (if available).

Lastaforest has specific storage solutions for filter papers to make papers organized and easy to access. It is currently able to store universal filter-papers up to 58mm and contains up to 120 pieces.

Having the tools organized will also help you to duplicate the same preparation process for each cup.

Matching Tools to Your Brewing Style

There are many tools available for your coffee brewing needs; here's how to select the ones that are right for you.

The way in which you are going to brew your coffee should dictate your purchases.

If you're doing it manually, a mortar and pestle will give you the grinding experience you need when grinding coffee. A proper WDT tool espresso accessory can assist in ground distribution prior to tamping for espresso.

Choose the right sized and shaped coffee paper for your pour-over or espresso machine if using a disposable filtration system.

Lastaforest is available to provide tools in all these areas, and it's possible to develop a coffee station over a period of time rather than buying all the tools at once.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Lastaforest Coffee Equipment

When you begin with your method of brewing coffee and what problems you want to solve with each piece of equipment, it becomes easier to choose the coffee gear.

There are ways to grind coffee manually, such as using a mortar and pestle, and an espresso accessory from WDT can be used to spread grounds out before tamping. When used appropriately with the right coffee equipment, the right coffee paper can also help maintain steady filtration.

Lastaforest is now distributing espresso equipment, several WDT designs, espresso filter papers, V60 filters, and equipment to use with coffee-stations.

For purchase, verify compatibility, practice frequency of use and only invest in equipment that will enhance your process.