How to Add Custom Patterns in Gutenberg (Block Patterns Guide)

Why Create Custom Block Patterns?

Custom block patterns offer several advantages, especially for brands and agencies: 

1. 1. Speed andEfficiency : 

• Instead of rebuilding the same layout repeatedly, you create it once and reuse it anywhere. 

1. 2. Consistency Across Pages

• Patterns help maintain brand consistency—same structure, spacing, typography, and elements. 

1. 3. Better Workflow for Teams

• Designers can create patterns and developers can register them, allowing content writers to use them effortlessly. 

1. 4. No Need for Page Builders

• Many layout structures previously created using Elementor, Divi, or WPBakery can now be built using native Gutenberg patterns. 

Methods to Add Custom Block Patterns in Gutenberg :

There are two primary ways to create custom block patterns: 

A. Create Patterns Using theWordPress Editor (No Code Method)

B. Register Custom Patterns via Code (Developer Method)

We’ll explore both methods in detail. 

A. Creating Block Patterns Without Code (Easiest Method) :

If you’re not a developer, the simplest way to create custom block patterns is through the Gutenberg editor using the Patterns → Create Pattern feature (WordPress 6.0+). 

Step 1: Build Your Layout Using Blocks 

Open a post or page and create any block structure you want, such as: 

• A hero banner with heading and button
• A 3-column service section
• A testimonial layout

Make sure it’s styled exactly the way you want. 

Step 2: Select the Blocks 

• Highlight all blocks that belong to that pattern. 

Step 3: Convert to Pattern 

• Click the three-dot menu (options) → Create Pattern. 

Step 4: Add Pattern Details 

• You will be prompted to enter: 

• Pattern Name 

• Pattern Category (e.g., CTA, Banners, Layouts) 

• Optional description 

Check the option Sync only if you want updates to apply everywhere (similar to Reusable Blocks).
For independent patterns, leave it unchecked. 

Step 5: Save the Pattern 

Your newly created pattern will appear under the Patterns tab in the block inserter. This method is perfect for non-technical users and makes it easy to create custom block patterns quickly and efficiently. 

B. Register Custom Block Patterns Using Code (Developer Method) :

If you prefer to add patterns as part of a theme or plugin, WordPress allows you to register them via PHP. 

Step 1: Create Your Pattern HTML 

You can design it in the editor and copy the block markup. 

Example pattern markup :  

Step 2: Register the Pattern in functions.php 

Add this code to your theme’s functions.php or custom plugin: 

Step 3: Create Custom Pattern Categories (Optional) :

Your new pattern will now appear under the custom category in Gutenberg. 

Best Practices When Creating Custom Block Patterns

1. 1. Keep Patterns Modular

• A pattern should be reusable and flexible enough for various pages. 

1. 2. Follow Consistent Spacing Rules

• Use global spacing variables from theme.json for uniformity. 

1. 3. Use Block Styles for Branding

• Keep brand colors, fonts, and layouts consistent across patterns. 

1. 4. Limit Overly Complex Patterns

• Too many nested blocks can confuse editors and slow down performance. 

1. 5. Test Responsiveness

• Preview patterns on mobile and tablet before publishing.

Tools to Help You Build Patterns Easily :

Here are some useful tools for generating block patterns: 

Gutenberg Editor Itself :  

• Best for copy/pasting HTML markup. 

Block Pattern Builder Plugins :  

• BlockMeister
• Gutentor 

These allow visual creation and pattern export. 

WordPress Pattern Directory 

• You can copy patterns from here and modify them as needed.

Where Custom Patterns Are Stored :  

Depending on the method used: 

Understanding this helps with migration and version control.

When Should You Use Custom Block Patterns? 

Patterns are great for: 

• Page builders inside custom themes
• Client websites requiring consistent layouts
• Agency workflows with repeating designs
• Landing pages and templates
• WooCommerce product layouts
• Blog section designs (headers, CTAs, lists)

If you frequently recreate the same section, creating a block pattern saves massive time.