A method of forming a target pattern using a redox activated surface is disclosed. The method includes patterning a redox agent on a template layer formed on a substrate, the template layer having a first oxidation state, wherein upon contact with the redox agent, the contacted portion of the template layer changes to a second oxidation state different than the first oxidation state, and a template pattern is formed from the portion of the template layer having either the first oxidation state or the second oxidation state, and exposing the substrate having the template pattern to a target material, wherein the target material selectively binds to the template pattern to form a target pattern.