The invention relates to a method for partially coating a surface of an object, comprising the following steps: (a) optional hydrophobization of the surface of the object; (b) partial application of (b1) a liquid and subsequent application of a powderous or granular substance or (b2) a solution or suspension of said powderous or granular substance in a liquid; (c) drying the surface to form spatially-delimited salt or powder crusts; (d) coating the surface with at least one layer of a metal or a metal compound; and (e) removing the salt or powder crusts that have been produced. The invention also relates to products that have been produced according to the claimed method.