Please don't consider this a visit from the Gaiwan Police. You are
within your rights not to use one, but maybe there are things you
haven't considered.

"Melinda" writes:
[...]
I have been thinking about this lately, I have about five gaiwans and they
are nothing but a pain for me to do gung fu in, as far as pouring off the
liquid. I'll brew and drink from them (with pleasure) but using them as
brewing vessels for me is really difficult, partially because I have really
tiny hands

Maybe you know this, but there are gaiwans available in many sizes,
including ones small enough for a child's hand.

but also because of the water temp.

In my experience, the difference between a gaiwan that's very hot to
the touch and one that's comfortable is a matter of how much the lip
flares. (More is better.)

They don't have a spout so my tea tends to go all over.

Maybe your trouble controlling the pour is related to the size and heat?

/Lew
---
Lew Perin /
http://www.panix.com/~perin/babelcarp.html