You may have already dabbled in trying to make your paper age quickly before. You may have even learned the hard way that burning the edges only reduces your paper’s size and tossing dirt and coffee on it will only make it look dirty and smell like a diner. (Though you did have the right idea.) If you want to truly give your paper an ancient look, here is what you do:

Start by making your own handmade paper, or using some you have on hand special for this occasion. Then crumple your paper up into a ball, as if you were throwing it away (but please don’t throw it away!). Then, after brewing a strong cup of tea, unfurl your paper and paint on the tea color.

Alternatively, you can use a very strong cup of coffee (see, you did have the right idea). You can either paint it on as you would with the tea, or actually bake it into your paper. Place your paper on a cookie sheet (after unfurling it) and preheat your oven to its lowest setting. Pour the coffee over the paper, sponging off any excess, and bake it in the oven for just a few minutes. Keep a close eye on your paper; it can catch fire. Remove it after three to five minutes and it will have a dry, aged look.