1. Place pot on a dry, flat, non-slip surface. Hold handle firmly, then pull the plunger unit straight up and out of the pot.
2. For each 4 oz cup, put 1 rounded tablespoon (2 level T per 6 oz) of coarse ground coffee into the pot. CAUTION: Use only coarse ground coffee. Fine grind can clog the filter and create high pressure.
3. Fill the tea kettle cold water and bring the water to a boil. When you pull the water off the flame, it will cool slightly and it will be just a bit under 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Pour the hot (not boiling) water directly into the French Press over the coffee grounds. Leave a minimum of 1 inch of space at the top. Stir the brew with a plastic spoon or chopstick. CAUTION: Metal spoons can scratch or chip the glass beaker and cause breakage.
4. Place the plunger unit on top of the pot. Turn the lid to close off the pour spout opening (does not apply to the Brazil models). Do not press down. Let the coffee brew for 2-4 minutes, depending on your preference in taste. You'll find the longer the water has contact with grounf coffee, the more bitter your brew will become.
5. Hold the pot handle firmly with the spout turned away from you, then using just the weight of your hand, apply slight pressure on top of the knob to lower the plunger straight down into the pot. Lowering the plunger slowly with minimal pressure produces best results. If the filter clogs or it becomes difficult to push down the plunger you should remove the plunger from the pot, stir the brew and then slowly plunge again. WARNING: Using excessive force can cause scalding liquid to shoot out of the pot.
6. Turn the lid to open the pour spout and then pour coffee.
7. Unscrew the filter assembly and clean the plunger unit after each use. All parts are dishwasher safe.