Introduction: Coffee-Antiqued Map
Coffee is the best dye for creating antique maps and documents. You won't believe how simple the process is, and how great your documents turn out!
Supplies
- 8x10 inch picture frame
- computer
- printer
- instant coffee granules
- microwave
- oven
- baking sheet
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- paper cutter
Step 1: Printing the Map
Using a computer and printer, print a map onto an 8-1/2x 11 sheet of paper. (I printed a Lord of the Rings map.) Using a paper cutter, trim the paper down to 8x10 inches.
Step 2: Dyeing the Map
Heat 1/3 cup of water in a microwave. Add 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules to the hot water. Stir until granules are dissolved. Place printed map onto baking sheet, and then pour coffee onto its surface. Using a spoon, carefully spread the coffee, to coat the entire surface of the map. Let it sit for 10 minutes, and then carefully remove map. Let the excess coffee drip onto the pan; pour excess coffee back into container, and then lay map back on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Baking the Map
Preheat oven to 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Place baking sheet on middle oven rack. Bake 5-10 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove, and check to see if it is done. The map is done when the edges are crisp.
Frame the map.

Third Prize in the
Coffee Speed Challenge
8 Comments
3 years ago
Ha ha! For my daughter's 8th birthday it was a pirate theme. So we made these big "treasure maps" then lightly coated them with a lemon (vinegar works too) wash, baked them in the oven for about 15 minutes once dry or until golden brown. So cool! Even tore the edges a bit to make it look really frayed and old.
3 years ago
Inkjet or laser printer?
Reply 3 years ago
Inkjet
Reply 3 years ago
I was always afraid the inkjet ink would get weird if was exposed to water after the fact. You've given me new confidence.
3 years ago
This is brilliant! thanks for making this instructable.
3 years ago
Nicely done .. i was going to make an entry for the coffee contest with the same idea ... you best me to it lol
Best of luck
3 years ago on Step 3
I like the charred edges effect. I've got lots of antique paper on my desk, including a big part of the desk calendar. Yes, I'm a coffee spiller.....
3 years ago
Nice effect.