A method for applying a magnetic element to a surface includes the steps of providing a magnetized surface capable of holding a magnetic element, providing a substrate having a surface to be modified by the addition of the magnetic element, bringing the magnetic element into contact with the surface of the substrate, eliminating the magnetism of the magnetized surface to create an un-magnetized surface, and withdrawing the un-magnetized surface from contact with the surface of the substrate, thereby leaving behind the magnetic element on the surface of the substrate.