The present invention is directed to methods, systems, devices, and kits for coating portions of a medical device or other work piece as well as to medical devices that have themselves been coated in accord with the invention. Under methods of the invention, portions of a medical device may be selectively coated. The method may include providing a medical device, an applicator, and a spreader. A layer of coating having a thickness may then be applied to a target surface of the medical device with the applicator. When the coating is applied, the spreader can be positioned in contact with the coating to reduce the coating thickness by spreading the coating over a larger surface area of the target surface.