Abstract: A layer or coating bonded to a substrate is encapsulated to prevent portions of the layer from becoming detached and randomly distributed. This is accomplished by applying a first layer of an adhesive to the exposed surface of the layer to be encapsulated. A second layer composed of a fibrous material is placed in contact with the first layer of adhesive and then an additional layer of adhesive is applied by a suitable technique such as brushing or coating. The additional layer of adhesive penetrates the fibrous material forming a stratified layer composed of an outer layer primarily of the adhesive, an intermediate layer composed primarily of a mixture of adhesive and fibrous material and an inner layer including the exposed surface layer and portions of the adhesive. The method is useful for encapsulating potentially hazardous materials such as lead based paints and asbestos.