A method is provided for surface treating a substrate utilizing powder coating so that the substrate can be adorned with a decorative pattern and/or color, and can have a durable, aesthetically appealing finish. The decorative pattern can be applied via transfer printing processes, for example, by a sublimation process or a hydrographic process. The method optionally can be used to produce a visually perceivable transition between a decorative pattern, for example, a camouflage pattern, and a generally solid color on the substrate. The transition can be gradual, so that the decorative pattern appears to fade into the generally solid color to provide an appealing visual effect on a product. The method can be used to surface treat a variety of products, for example, archery products and/or firearm products.