If your goal is to make modern paper look like ancient parchment or "vintage" paper, use these common distressing methods: :
: Arrange natural objects (leaves, flowers) or negative transparencies on the paper. Snu03b1pChu03b1tSh0wnzip
: You can use pre-treated solar paper or prepare your own using a cyanotype kit. Archer and Olive provides a tutorial on using solar paper for sun prints. The Process : If your goal is to make modern paper
: Carefully use a lighter underneath the paper's edges. Wetting the edges slightly beforehand helps control the flame and creates a controlled, blackened border . Snu03b1pChu03b1tSh0wnzip
: Place your prepared paper on a flat surface, like a piece of cardboard.
Watch this step-by-step demonstration on how to safely burn paper edges for a vintage prop look: