Well, what I was thinking, was that the flap there holds the tea leaves back so you don't swallow them when you make fresh tea with no tea bag. However, using "shield" and "guard" didn't seem to work when searching. 
-
-
It's not to keep something in the cup, but to keep the tea away from something.
sigpicComment
-
Victorian Mustache Cup
I can't believe I couldn't figure that out without your last BIG hint.
Comment
-
Way to go, Escape!
Glad you got it before I went out of town. 
sigpicComment
-
Thanks! And I hope you have a great trip!! 
Hope to chat soon. 
*goes off to find a new item*
Comment
-
a shoe horn - lift ?Comment
-
Hi Old Biker!
Eww!! I hope that's not what it is!!
It's not used on your shoe/feet.
Comment
-
Is it some time of measuring device for like sewing or knitting?Laugh at yourself. You will forever be amused.Comment
-
By your reaction to Old Biker, I would guess that it goes in your mouth.sigpicComment
-
maybe a can opener?Comment
-
Is that used to stir coffee?Cℓĭck Here to pℓαγ "Tђє First Door"
tђє мost cђαℓℓєηgĭηg oηℓĭηє qυєst.
"We don't stop playing games because we grow old,sigpic
we grow old because we stop playing games"Comment
-
Or a measure for spaghetti
Comment
-
@Vlc, Crimson, RBS, and Becky...Nope, nope, nope, and nope...
@Mom....You're correct!! I think you know what it is. We call it a "Spaghetti tester." So you're not really measuring it, but you're testing it to see if it's ready. Your turn! Good job! 
Comment
-
Well... I... just...
And here I was making a joke
Ok... hang on
Comment
-
Is it used to create rope or sewing?Comment
Comment