Abstract: A method is provided for improving the scratch or surface wear resistance of substrates by embedding discrete, hard particles within the surface layer of the substrate. Discrete, hard particles are applied to the substrate surface and then embedded within and bonded to the surface layer of the substrate by softening the substrate surface layer by either thermal or solvent means. Suitable substrate materials include thermoplastics, thermoset plastics, polymers, glass, soft metals, and composites. Suitable hard particles include diamond, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, cubic boron nitride, boron carbide, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, tantalum carbide, titanium carbide, titanium nitride, tungsten carbide, and zirconia alloys containing at least one phase stabilization additive selected from the group yttrium, hafnium, calcium, magnesium, and cesium. Scratch resistant substrates or articles having discrete, hard particles embedded within the surface layer of the substrate or article are also provided.