Table of contents
What are WordPress block patterns?Where to find block patterns in WordPressHow to insert a block patternHow to use patterns for faster, better designReusable blocks vs block patterns: what’s the difference?How to create your own block patternsHow themes and plugins add their own block patternsTips for managing and organizing block patternsCommon mistakes to avoidNext stepsAdditional resources
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WordPress Guide → Build → Block Patterns

WordPress block patterns: A beginner’s guide

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WordPress block patterns are one of the easiest ways to build better pages, faster. With just a few clicks, you can drop in professionally designed layouts that work across devices and instantly upgrade your design—even if you’re brand new to WordPress.

Let’s look at how block patterns work, where to find them, and how to start using or even creating your own.

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What are WordPress block patterns?

WordPress block patterns are pre-built groups of blocks that you can insert into posts and pages. Each one is made from regular WordPress blocks—like images, headings, columns, and buttons—but already styled and arranged to work well together.

Think of them as layout templates for sections of your site. Instead of building a hero section from scratch, you can use a block pattern that already has an image, a heading, and a call-to-action button. All you need to do is swap in your content.

Benefits of using block patterns:

  • Faster page building
  • Visually consistent designs
  • No coding or design experience needed

Where to find block patterns in WordPress

Block patterns are built into the WordPress Block Editor and appear in a few key places:

  • The “Patterns” tab in the block inserter (the + icon in the top-left or within content).
  • Inside certain blocks, like the Query Loop or Columns block, which offer pattern-based layouts.
  • The WordPress Pattern Directory, a free collection of patterns you can copy into your site.
  • From plugins or themes that add their own custom patterns.

You can browse patterns by category—like headers, galleries, or testimonials—to quickly find what you need.

How to insert a block pattern

Inserting a pattern is quick and easy:

  1. Open any post or page in the Block Editor.
  2. Click the + icon to open the block inserter.
  3. Select the “Patterns” tab.
  4. Browse categories or use the search bar.
  5. Click a pattern to insert it into your content.

Once inserted, the pattern becomes a group of normal blocks you can edit, rearrange, or delete. You’re never locked into the original layout.

How to use patterns for faster, better design

Block patterns are great for building:

  • Hero sections with large headlines and call-to-action buttons.
  • Grids for services, product features, or blog posts.
  • Team or testimonial sections.
  • About pages and contact layouts.

Instead of creating these from scratch, just insert a pattern, replace the content, and you’re done. It’s perfect for small business sites, personal blogs, and portfolio pages.

Reusable blocks vs block patterns: what’s the difference?

These two features sound similar, and are often confused, but they work differently:

  • Reusable blocks are synced across your site. Update one, and the change applies everywhere it’s used.
  • Block patterns are one-time inserts. After you add one to a page, you can edit it without affecting other instances.

Use reusable blocks for consistent content (like disclaimers or opt-in forms), and patterns for layout shortcuts.

How to create your own block patterns

You can build your own patterns if you want to reuse custom layouts or designs.

Create patterns manually (using code)

  1. Design your layout in the Block Editor.
  2. Click the three-dot menu and select “Copy all blocks.”
  3. Use the copied block code in a PHP file to register a pattern in your theme or plugin.

This method is great for developers or advanced users building custom themes.

Use a plugin to save patterns visually

Non-coders can use plugins like Reusable Blocks Extended. These let you turn any block group into a reusable pattern and organize it in your editor.

How themes and plugins add their own block patterns

Many modern themes and plugins include block patterns out of the box. For example:

  • Full Site Editing (FSE) themes like Twenty Twenty-Four often include dozens of custom patterns.
  • Plugins for contact forms, galleries, or ecommerce often add patterns that make setup easier.

You’ll see these in the Patterns tab or automatically suggested when inserting related blocks.

Tips for managing and organizing block patterns

The more organized your pattern library is, the faster your workflow becomes.

  • Name your custom patterns clearly so you can find them easily.
  • Remove old or unused patterns via plugins or custom code.
  • Bookmark your favorite designs in the WordPress Pattern Directory.

Common mistakes to avoid

Even though block patterns are beginner-friendly, it’s easy to run into small issues that can slow you down or confuse your workflow. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for as you get started.

  • Editing a reusable block thinking it’s a pattern (and unintentionally updating it everywhere).
  • Forgetting to check mobile responsiveness after inserting a complex layout.
  • Using too many design styles and creating visual inconsistency. Stick with patterns that match your theme and brand to keep things clean and polished.

Additional resources

How to build a WordPress site →

A complete beginner’s guide that covers 9 key steps to a successful launch

How to add a Facebook Like button in WordPress →

Discover how to schedule WordPress posts in advance to automate publishing and maintain a consistent content calendar.




How to use WordPress Gutenberg blocks →

A complete beginner’s guide to Gutenberg blocks