The Only Filter Designed for 3-Cup Chemex & Funnex - Unfold Your Perfect Brew
The Chemex FP-2 Half Moon Filter is the specialized filter designed exclusively for the compact 3-cup Chemex and the unique Funnex brewer. Due to their smaller size and unique design, these filters arrive unfolded as flat half-moon circles that you fold yourself before brewing.
Don't worry—folding is easy! Each box includes clear folding instructions, and once you've done it a few times, it becomes second nature. Many brewers actually prefer the ritual of folding their own filters as part of the mindful brewing process.
These white, oxygen-cleansed filters are 20-30% thicker than standard coffee filters, delivering the same laboratory-grade filtration that Chemex is famous for—removing oils, fats, bitterness, and sediment for crystal-clear, full-bodied coffee.
Key Features:
- 100 Filters Per Box - Long-lasting economical packaging
- Half Moon Shape - Specifically designed for 3-cup & Funnex
- Unfolded (Requires Folding) - Easy folding instructions included
- Fits 3-Cup Chemex & Funnex - ONLY compatible with these models
- 20-30% Thicker - Superior filtration vs. regular filters
- Oxygen-Cleansed White - Bleach-free, no chemical taste
- Laboratory-Grade Paper - Removes oils, fats, bitterness, sediment
- Made in USA - Sustainably harvested North American materials
- Compostable & Biodegradable - Eco-friendly disposal
- Won't Burst or Break - Guaranteed durability even when hand-folded
- Perfect Infusion Time - Engineered filtration rate
- Unique Design - No pre-folded option available due to size/shape
Compatible Chemex Models
Designed Exclusively for 3-Cup Chemex & Funnex
✓ COMPATIBLE WITH:
3-Cup Chemex Models:
- CM-1C (3-Cup Classic Series - Wood Collar)
- CM-1GH (3-Cup Glass Handle Series)
- CM-1 (3-Cup Handblown Series)
Funnex Brewer:
- CM-FNX (Chemex Funnex - Direct-to-mug brewer)
Also Works With:
- Most small cone-shaped pour-over brewers
- Other compact pour-over coffee makers
✗ NOT COMPATIBLE WITH:
- CM-6A, CM-8A, CM-10A (6, 8, 10-Cup Classic) - Use FS-100 or FC-100
- CM-6GH, CM-8GH, CM-10GH (6, 8, 10-Cup Glass Handle) - Use FS-100 or FC-100
- CM-2, CM-3, CM-4 (Handblown 6, 8, 10-Cup) - Use FS-100 or FC-100
Why No Pre-Folded Option?
Due to the unique half-moon shape and compact size of 3-cup and Funnex filters, they cannot be pre-folded. The half-moon design requires a specific folding technique that's incompatible with machine pre-folding.
Why Half Moon Filters?
Designed Specifically for Compact Chemex Brewers
Unique Shape for Unique Brewers
The half-moon circular shape is engineered specifically for the proportions of 3-cup Chemex and Funnex brewers. It's not just a smaller version of standard filters—it's a completely different design optimized for compact brewing.
The 3-Cup Difference
3-cup Chemex brewers (and the Funnex) have different proportions than larger models. The half-moon shape ensures:
- Perfect fit in the smaller opening
- Proper cone formation when folded
- Optimal water flow for small batch brewing
- Correct 3-layer positioning against the spout
Why They're Unfolded
The half-moon shape and small size make machine pre-folding impossible. But that's actually a feature:
- You control the exact fold each time
- More compact storage
- Part of the mindful brewing ritual
- Easy to fold once you know how (5 seconds!)
How to Fold FP-2 Half Moon Filters
Step-by-Step Folding Instructions
Step 1: Start with the Half Moon
- Remove one unfolded half-moon filter from the box
- Lay it flat on a clean surface
- The curved edge is the outer edge; the straight edge is where folds happen
Step 2: First Fold - In Half
- Fold the half-moon filter in half
- You now have a quarter-moon shape
- Crease gently but firmly
Step 3: Fold the Tab Inward
- You'll see a small half-circle tab on the filter
- Fold this tab inward toward the center
- This creates the proper structure for the cone
Step 4: Second Fold - In Half Again
- Fold the filter in half again
- You now have a cone-like wedge shape
- Don't worry about perfect creases—gentle folds are fine
Step 5: Open into a Cone
- Place your finger between the layers
- Open the cone so 3 leaves are on one side, 1 leaf on the other
- This creates the proper cone shape
Step 6: Position in Chemex
- Place the opened cone into your 3-cup Chemex or Funnex
- Position the 3-layer side against the spout/groove
- The filter should sit securely in the brewer
Time Required:
- First time: 30-60 seconds
- After practice: 5-10 seconds
- It becomes automatic very quickly!
Pro Tips:
- Don't over-crease the filter—gentle folds work better
- The filter doesn't need to be perfectly symmetrical
- If you mess up, just unfold and start again
- Keep filters flat for easiest folding
Why Choose Unfolded Filters?
The Benefits of Folding Your Own
More Compact Storage
Unfolded filters take up significantly less space in your kitchen cabinet or drawer. Perfect for small kitchens or minimal storage.
Part of the Ritual
Many coffee lovers enjoy the mindful ritual of folding their filter before brewing. It's a small moment of intention before making your coffee.
Quality Control
You see and touch every filter, ensuring it's clean and properly formed before brewing.
Travel Friendly
Flat half-moon filters pack easier for camping, travel, or office use than pre-folded options.
Unique Design Requirement
This isn't about cost-cutting—it's the only way to design filters for these specific brewers.
Why Chemex Filters Are Superior
Laboratory-Grade Engineering Since 1941
Chemex filters aren't ordinary coffee filters—they're precision-engineered laboratory paper designed by chemist Dr. Peter Schlumbohm for one purpose: brewing perfect coffee.
The Science Behind the Filter:
20-30% Thicker Paper
Even in the compact half-moon size, FP-2 filters maintain the same 20-30% extra thickness that makes Chemex filters legendary. This creates a denser filtration barrier that traps undesirable elements while allowing pure coffee flavor to pass through.
Bonded Construction
Multiple layers are bonded together to create exceptional strength. Even when you fold the filter yourself, it won't burst under the weight of water during brewing and won't break when you lift out the spent grounds.
Precise Filtration Rate
The formulation regulates water flow—not too slow (over-extraction/bitterness), not too fast (under-extraction/weakness). The result is optimal infusion every time, even in small batches.
What Gets Filtered Out:
- ✓ Coffee oils (cafestol and kahweol) - reduces bitterness and acidity
- ✓ Fine sediment particles - creates clean, clear coffee
- ✓ Undesirable fats - eliminates oily mouthfeel
- ✓ Bitter compounds - allows stronger brewing without bitterness
What Passes Through:
- ✓ Desirable flavor compounds
- ✓ Natural sweetness
- ✓ Aromatic oils (in appropriate amounts)
- ✓ Full-bodied richness
Product Specifications
Package Details:
- Quantity: 100 filters per box
- Model Number: FP-2
- Filter Type: Unfolded half-moon circles, white (oxygen-cleansed)
- Shape: Half-moon (flat) → Cone (when folded)
- Size: 13" diameter half circle
Filter Specifications:
- Material: Bonded laboratory-grade filter paper
- Thickness: 20-30% thicker than standard coffee filters
- Color: White (oxygen-cleansed)
- Construction: Multi-layer bonded
- Folding: Required before use (instructions included)
Manufacturing:
- Made in: United States
- Materials: 100% North American materials
- Sustainability: SFI, FSC, and PEFC certified
- Processing: Oxygen-cleansed (bleach-free)
- Cut: Each filter individually cut at Chemex factory in Massachusetts
Environmental:
- Compostable: Yes
- Biodegradable: Yes
- Recyclable: Yes (as paper product)
- Chemical-free: No bleach or harsh chemicals used
How to Use FP-2 Filters for Brewing
Complete Brewing Instructions
Step 1: Fold Your Filter
- Follow the folding instructions above
- Takes 5-10 seconds once you've practiced
- Open into cone with 3 leaves on one side
Step 2: Position in 3-Cup Chemex or Funnex
- Place folded cone in brewer
- 3-layer side against the spout/groove
- Filter should sit securely and evenly
Step 3: Rinse the Filter (Highly Recommended)
- Pour hot water through the empty filter
- This removes any paper taste
- Preheats your small brewer (important for 3-cup)
- Discard rinse water
Step 4: Add Coffee
- For 3-Cup Chemex (15oz): 21-25g coffee (about 3 tablespoons)
- For Funnex (single mug): 14-18g coffee (about 2 tablespoons)
- Use medium-coarse grind
- Adjust to taste after first brew
Step 5: Brew Your Coffee
- Bloom: Pour twice the weight of coffee in water, wait 30-45 seconds
- Pour slowly in circular motion
- For 3-cup: Total brew time 3-4 minutes
- For Funnex: Total brew time 2-3 minutes
Step 6: Remove & Discard
- Grab the filter carefully (it's hot!)
- Your hand-folded filter is just as strong as pre-folded
- Won't break or burst during removal
- Compost filter and grounds together
3-Cup Chemex vs. Funnex: Filter Usage
Same Filter, Two Different Brewers
3-Cup Chemex (15oz capacity):
- Classic hourglass Chemex shape, smaller size
- Perfect for 1-2 servings
- Ideal for individual daily brewing or couples
- Use 21-25g coffee
- Brew time: 3-4 minutes
Funnex (Single mug):
- Direct-to-mug brewing
- Ultra-compact design
- Perfect for single servings at office or home
- Use 14-18g coffee
- Brew time: 2-3 minutes
- Brews directly into your cup
Both Use FP-2 Filters:
Same half-moon filter fits both brewers perfectly. If you own both a 3-cup Chemex and a Funnex, you only need one type of filter!
Frequently asked question
Choose 3-cup if: You typically brew for yourself, have limited counter space, or want a travel/office brewer. Makes 1-2 standard mugs.
Choose 6-cup if: You brew for 2 people, want the most versatile option, or like having multiple cups throughout the morning. Makes 2-4 standard mugs. This is the most popular size.
Choose 8-cup if: You have a family of 3-4, entertain regularly, or want to brew larger batches. Makes 3-5 standard mugs.
Choose 10-cup if: You have a large family, brew for an office, host frequent gatherings, or want maximum capacity. Makes 4-6 standard mugs.
Remember: Chemex measures in 5 oz cups, while most coffee mugs hold 8-12 oz.
- 3-cup Chemex: Makes 1-2 standard mugs (15-17 oz total)
- 6-cup Chemex: Makes 2-4 standard mugs (30 oz total)
- 8-cup Chemex: Makes 3-5 standard mugs (40 oz total)
- 10-cup Chemex: Makes 4-6 standard mugs (50 oz total)
3-cup Chemex: Requires square Chemex bonded filters (available in natural or bleached)
6, 8, and 10-cup Chemex: All use the same circle Chemex bonded filters (available in natural or bleached)
You cannot use regular coffee filters—only genuine Chemex bonded filters will work properly.
Bleached (White) Filters:
- Oxygen-bleached (not chlorine), environmentally safe
- No paper taste
- Preferred by most coffee professionals
- Slightly easier to use
Natural (Unbleached) Filters:
- Less processing
- May impart slight paper taste if not rinsed well
- Preferred by eco-conscious users
- Require thorough rinsing
Both produce excellent coffee. It's a matter of personal preference.
No, Chemex filters are sold separately. We recommend ordering filters at the same time as your Chemex so you can start brewing immediately. Subscribe & Save for automatic filter delivery and discount pricing.
No. Regular coffee filters are too thin and will not properly filter the coffee or maintain the structural integrity needed for the Chemex brewing process. Only genuine Chemex Bonded Filters are designed to work with Chemex brewers.
Yes! The polished wood collar is designed to be removable. Take it off before putting your Chemex in the dishwasher or for thorough hand washing. This extends the life of both the glass and the wood.
Yes, the glass carafe is dishwasher safe. However, always remove the wood collar and leather tie before washing. We recommend hand washing to preserve the beauty of your Chemex for generations.
Chemex produces cleaner, brighter coffee because the thick bonded filters remove more oils and fine particles than standard drip machine filters. The pour over method also gives you complete control over water temperature, saturation, and brew time—variables that automatic drip machines can't match. The result is a more nuanced, complex cup that highlights your coffee's unique characteristics.
With proper care, your Chemex can last a lifetime. The borosilicate glass is extremely durable and heat-resistant. Many Chemex owners have used the same brewer for 20, 30, or even 40+ years. The wood collar and leather tie can be replaced if needed, but the glass carafe is built to last generations.
The Classic Series features the iconic polished wood collar and leather tie—this is the original design from 1941.
Other Chemex models include:
- Glass Handle Chemex: All-glass design without wood collar
- Chemex Ottomatic: Automatic pour over brewer
The Classic Series is the most recognized design and what most people picture when they think of Chemex.
Use a medium-coarse grind, similar to the texture of sea salt.
- Too fine = over-extracted, bitter coffee and slow brew time
- Too coarse = under-extracted, weak coffee and fast brew time
- Just right = balanced extraction in 3.5-4.5 minutes
A quality burr grinder is highly recommended for consistent results.