One embodiment comprises a method for increasing the hydrophobic characteristics of a surface. A coupling agent is applied to the surface, and the surface is subsequently exposed to a first ionizing gas plasma at about atmospheric pressure for a predetermined period of time. The ionizing gas plasma may be formed from a mixture of a carrier gas and a reactive gas. The reactive gas may be comprised of one or more hydrocarbon compound such as an alkane, an alkene, and an alkyne. Alternatively, the reactive gas may be a fluorocarbon or organometallic compound. A lubricant may then be applied to the surface, followed by exposure to second ionizing gas plasma.
