A functional gradient (FG) layer based on Ni-ZrO2 (3mol% Y2O3) was obtained by spraying diluted organic suspensions with an airbrush. The different layers were sequentially sprayed onto Y-TZP and Ni substrates, in 25 vol.% compositional steps. Afterwards, two ZrO2 bulk pieces as well as ZrO2 and Ni adherents were successfully joined using this type of FG structure as an interlayer. The microstructure and the possible reactions between the ZrO2 and Ni phases were analyzed. The porosity of each layer was evaluated by micro-hardness measurements.