A method for making an ion exchange coating (e.g., a chromatographic medium) on a substrate comprising (a) reacting at least a first amine compound comprising amino groups, with at least a first polyfunctional compound, in the presence of a substrate to form a first condensation polymer reaction product, with a first unreacted excess of either at least said first amino group or polyfunctional compound functional moieties, irreversibly attached to the substrate, and (b) reacting at least a second amine compound or at least a second polyfunctional compound with unreacted excess in the first condensation polymer reaction product to form a second condensation polymer reaction product, and repeating the steps to produce the desired coating. A coated ion exchange substrate so made.