A method of producing preconfigured arrangements of mobile shape-designed particles. The method includes providing a composite structure comprising a substrate and a layer of particle material over a surface of the substrate; lithographically producing a plurality of shaped-designed particles from the layer of particle material such that the plurality of shaped-designed particles remain substantially in a layer proximate the substrate; and at least one of subsequent to or in conjunction with the lithographically producing, immersing the plurality of shaped-designed particles the substrate in a fluid material, at a preselected temperature. The fluid material comprises a depletion agent having particles having sizes and a volume fraction to provide depletion attraction between at least a portion of the shaped-designed particles and the substrate such that the shaped-designed particles remain substantially in the layer proximate the substrate.