How to Antique a Paper Scroll

An aged scroll in a bottle is another fun toy or attractive decor idea.

Giving a paper scroll an antique look can lend it a more authentic or decorative appearance for a variety of uses. Stack a few ribbon-tied scrolls as a decorative highlight on a bookshelf or stick an antiqued scroll or two into a clear vase to supplement a room with quirky and intriguing decor. You can also use these techniques to age scrolls for kids to play with, such as pretend pirate treasure maps or buried archaeological manuscripts.

Things You'll Need

• Tea
• Water
• Paper
• Candle
• Electric lamp

Instructions

1. Write or draw the contents of the scroll before aging the paper to maintain consistency between the condition of the ink and the paper. If desired, sprinkle drops of water onto the ink before it dries completely to mar the message.

2. Steep two or more teabags in a mug of water for 15 minutes or more to brew very strong tea.

3. Soak the paper in the tea and allow it to dry in order to dye it with an aged brown color. After it dries, paint or dab parts of it with a wet teabag to create blotches and discolorations, or soak and dry the paper again to darken the color.

4. Burn the edges lightly with a candle to create uneven, damaged edges or darken parts of the paper by holding it over a light bulb. If children are involved in the craft, make sure they have adult supervision when using heat sources or an open flame.

References

• LifeSpy.com; How to Age Paper; April 2007