Abstract: A method of forming a predetermined pattern on a substrate or support. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of:(a) providing a laser beam having sufficient power to vaporize a specified pattern-forming material;(b) providing an assembly comprising (i) a substrate which is transparent to the laser and which forms an intimate contact interface with (ii) a smooth layer of the selected pattern-forming material;(c) focusing the laser beam through the substrate at or near the interface of the pattern-forming material; and(d) moving the substrate and the laser beam relative to each other according to the predetermined pattern to selectively deposit the pattern-forming material on the substrate according to the predetermined pattern.