A metal microparticle coated with metal nanoparticles is disclosed. Some variations provide a material comprising a plurality of microparticles (1 micron to 1 millimeter) containing a metal or metal alloy and coated with a plurality of nanoparticles (less than 1 micron) or nanoparticle inclusions (potentially larger than 1 micron). The invention eliminates non-uniform distribution of sintering aids by attaching them directly to the surface of the microparticles. No method is previously known to exist which can assemble nanoparticle inclusions onto the surface of a metal microparticle. Some variations provide a solid article comprising a material with a metal or metal alloy microparticles coated with metal hydride or metal alloy nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles form continuous or periodic inclusions at or near grain boundaries within the microparticles.