Aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared on silicon substrates using chemical vapor deposition method. Acrylate monomers were then successfully grafted onto the surface of CNTs using ATRP technology. The synthesis process was optimized by studying surface properties of the composite films. Unique structures similar to that of lotus leaf were obtained when the polymer matrix was etched. The water contact angle was up to 155.7° in this case. The influence of monomer ratio on the strength of coated papers was discussed. Drag reduction characteristics of different surfaces were also investigated. On the base of the above, polymerization and fluid drag reduction mechanisms were proposed. The novel method of fabricating paper-based superhydrophobic film constitutes an additional positive feature.