a method for processing a substrate article is provided . the method includes masking a first portion of the substrate article with a maskant that includes a formed graphite piece that overlays and contacts the first portion of the substrate such that a second portion of the substrate is not overlaid nor contacted by the maskant ; and processing the substrate article such that a coating of material is deposited on the second portion of the substrate , and wherein the maskant facilitates preventing the coating from being deposited on the first portion of the substrate article .