How to Antique Your Own Paper

Step 1: Write on the paper Write or print text or images on a clean sheet of paper that you intend to antique. Printer paper works well.
TIP: For added character, try a heavier bond or thickly textured paper.
Step 2: Crumple Crumple the paper into a ball, and then open it and smooth it out on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Brew tea or coffee Brew a cup of coffee or tea and paint it onto the paper with the paintbrush. You can also pour the liquid over the paper as long as you are quick to soak up the excess.
Step 4: Preheat oven Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.
Step 5: Bake Bake the paper for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t catch fire.
Step 6: Remove Remove your paper from the oven and put this now-ancient map or manuscript to good use.
FACT: In 1984, archaeologists excavated the main Roman entryway into Jerusalem and unearthed the tallest Roman structure in the country thanks to a 6th century mosaic treasure map.

Lessons in this Guide