How To: Antique your own paper

Aging paper is a great way incorporate learning about antiquities from the past while doing a fun hands on project in the classroom. It's easy and really adds something special to projects or even to do just for fun in your spare time.

If you need an authentic-looking treasure map or an old parchment to write a poem on, you don't need a time machine – just an oven and some basic household supplies.

You Will Need

   * Sheet of paper
   * Pen or printer
   * Baking sheet
   * Coffee or tea
   * Paintbrush
   * Oven
   * Bonded or textured paper (optional)

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.

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.

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.