In a method, in which a plain bearing alloy layer is bonded to a surface of a backing steel sheet, and, a Bi-based overlay layer is then deposited on the plain bearing alloy layer by electroplating, replacement of Bi with the backing steel sheet and deposition of Bi on the backing steel sheet are prevented. Prior to the step of electroplating of the Bi-based overlay layer, the following metals and the like are formed on at least the back surface of the backing steel sheet. An electrochemically more noble metal than Bi, an electrochemically more base metal than Bi and capable of forming a passivation state, or resin.