Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of creating patterned composite structures on a surface via layer-by-layer deposition of thin films. In certain embodiments, the surface is chemically patterned by the direct stamping of functional polymers on the surface film. A pattern may then be used as a template for the further depositions of materials on the surface. This concept may be applied to various functional polymer and substrate systems as well as various thin film deposition techniques.