Abstract: An improved method for plating and metallizing plastic articles is disclosed. A polymer is selected to mold a three-dimensional plastic article for use with miniaturized electronic devices. Patterns are structured onto the surface of the plastic article by means of laser direct structuring or by multi-shot injection molding. The patterns on the plastic article are activated with a colloidal palladium solution. The activated patterns are then plated with copper and nickel using electroless baths. Optionally, the patterns are flash gold plated to improve bonding, solderability and contact resistance.