Tea/Coffee-Stained Quote Pages Vintage Gothic Paper Craft

Give your paper a haunted library makeover. This tea and coffee staining technique turns plain sheets into vintage gothic treasures, perfect for spooky quotes, poems, or spellwork.

Under the glow of a crescent moon, even plain paper can take on a little magic. This simple tea or coffee staining technique transforms ordinary sheets into pages that look like they’ve been pulled straight from a haunted library or an old witch’s journal. Perfect for showcasing your favorite quote, poem, or spooky spell.

Materials:

  • Strong tea or coffee
  • Paintbrush
  • Paper of your choice (watercolor or mixed media recommended, but use what you have)
  • Heavy book for flattening
  • (Optional) Food coloring for a mystical twist of color

Instructions:

  1. Brew a strong cup of tea or coffee and let it cool.
  2. Decide whether you want to write your quote before or after staining. (Tip: If your ink runs, write first and let it dry completely.)
  3. Use the paintbrush to apply your brew to the paper. You can cover the entire sheet or just the edges for a grungy fade.
  4. Dab off excess liquid and let it dry for about 24 hours.
  5. If the paper curls, flatten it under a heavy book.
  6. Optional: Add a drop of food coloring for a custom hue.

Whether you’re framing it, using it for scrapbooking, or tucking it into a spell jar, this craft is a reminder that creativity doesn’t ask for perfection,just passion, a little darkness, and the courage to play.