The Coffee Method
This method for giving copy paper the appearance of parchment is through instant coffee. The process requires a few other ingredients and tools, too, but you'll likely have them around the house if you're any sort of culinary adventurer.
You will need:
- copy paper
- instant coffee
- water
- two oven-safe containers larger than your paper
(for copy paper, 9-inch by 13-inch baking pans should work) - 2 c. red wine (optional)
- a microwave
- an oven
- a spoon
- aluminum foil, if your second baking pan isn't clean
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°F.
- Mix about eight times the amount of coffee you would typically use for a cup of coffee with hot water.
- Pour a quarter-inch (¼") of coffee into the first container.
If desired, add the red wine as well.* - Float a sheet of copy paper atop the layer of coffee.
- Slowly spoon coffee over the paper until a thin layer coats the top side.
- Allow the paper to sit for 1 minute.
- Pick up the sheet of paper and allow the excess coffee to drain off.
If desired, carefully tear the edges of the paper.** - Place the sheet of paper into the second container and place it in the oven. Bake for 8 minutes.
Bravo! Your very own sheet of lookalike parchment paper!
* - Red wine will separate from the coffee on the drying paper, creating wavy lines. This addition creates an advanced appearance of age.
** - Tearing the edges will make the paper appear worn and damaged. Great for treasure maps--not so great for love letters.