A method of assembling large numbers of nanoscale structures in pre-determined ways using fluids or capillary lithography to control the patterning and arrangement of the individual nanoscale objects and nanostructures formed in accordance with the inventive method are provided. In summary, the current method uses the controlled dispersion and evaporation of fluids to form controlled patterns of nanoscale objects or features anchored on a substrate, such as nanoscale fibers like carbon nanotubes.