A computer-to-press multi-layer, positive-working imageable element has improved surface abrasion resistance from a micro-roughening of the outermost surface. This improvement is provided by spraying a solution consisting essentially of one or more dissolved organic resins in a solvent onto the outermost imageable layer of the imageable element. The one or more organic resins are soluble or dispersible in an aqueous alkaline solution and are present in the sprayed solution in an amount of at least 3 weight %. The sprayed solution is applied to deposit at least 10 mg/m2 and no more than 100 mg/m2 of the one or more dissolved organic resins onto the outermost imageable layer in the form of dots in a random pattern. The sprayed dots are then dried. The imageable elements can be imaged and developed to provide lithographic printing plates.