How to Create an Antique-Looking Paper

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How to Create an Antique-Looking Paper

Step 1: Burning the Paper’s Edges

This step is optional.

Using fire is dangerous and produces smoke. You should do it outdoors and under adult supervision.

Burning the edges of a paper
Burning the edges of the paper

 

Paper with burnt edges & antique look
Paper with burned edges

Step 2: Coloring the Paper Sheet

For an old and faded look, immerse the paper for several minutes in water with concentrated tea or coffee.

After receiving the desired shade, remove the paper from the dark liquid and let it dry on paper towels.

To speed up the drying process, it is possible to dry the paper outside or to use a hair dryer.

Dipping paper in dark liquid for antique look
Dipping paper in tea

 

Drying the antique looking paper
Drying on paper towels

Note:

It takes time to prepare an old-looking paper and wait for it to dry. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare several paper sheets in advance.

Tip:

Crumpling the paper sheet before putting it in water creates wrinkles and an antique, ragged look to it.

Tips for the Drawing Process

Start by drawing with a pencil. With a pencil, it is easy to erase and fix mistakes.

When you reach the desired outcome, go over it with a pen and gently erase the pencil marks.

You can use a ruler for straight lines.

Pencil drawing an antique pirate map
Step 1: Pencil drawing

 

Pen drawing an antique treasure map
 Step 2: Technical pen drawing

bjects to Add for a Treasure Map

Use reference photos or search the web for concept art to add to the pirate map.

Objects you add to a treasure map:

Legend: Understanding signs such as trails, trees, mountains, treasure, buildings, etc.

Map readability: Compass rose, scale bar, longitude, latitude and even altitude lines.

Marine symbols: Ship, anchor, steering wheel and marine navigation devices.

Drawing of a treasure map on antique paper