A method of securing a layer of colloidal crystals to a substrate is provided, to enhance durability of an aesthetic effect provided by the colloidal crystals. The method involves depositing a layer of colloidal crystals formed of mono-dispersed particles on the substrate. Subsequently, a layer of water-borne coating is applied to the layer of colloidal crystals. To be effective, the water-borne coating should have a curing temperature that is less than the polymer glass transition temperature of the mono-dispersed particles forming the colloidal crystals. The water-borne coating penetrates through the colloidal crystals to the substrate thus retaining the colloidal crystals in place. The curing temperature of the water-borne coating ensures that the colloidal crystals are not damaged by the process for curing the coating.