Biomimetic reaction systems, where small proteins and peptides assist in the growth of inorganic materials, has the potential for making complex structures that are otherwise difficult to achieve. Through the use of a new phage display procedure, we identify peptides never seen before in the binding of zinc oxide (ZnO). By altering the concentrations of these peptides, the morphology of ZnO nanorods can be controlled. Through the use of these peptides we form ZnO thin films on a variety of substrates including glass and flexible PET plastic. This is the first time reported that peptides identified through phage display can be used in the formation of a thin film.