Function: Design
Type: Project
Level: Beginner
BlockBlock Block is the abstract term used to describe units of markup that, composed together, form the content or layout of a webpage using the WordPress editor. The idea combines concepts of what in the past may have achieved with shortcodes, custom HTML, and embed discovery into a single consistent API and user experience. patterns are ready-made layouts you can insert into a page or post, such as a newsletter signup or a pricing section. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes a good pattern, then design and submit unique, helpful patterns to the Block Pattern Directory.
Before you start
Complete the common setup first, then:
- Setup: Browse the Block Pattern Directory to see what patterns already exist and what makes them useful
- Read: A quick guide for building WordPress patterns and Submit your block pattern to the directory
- Connect: Join #patterns and introduce yourself
Steps
- Identify a gap in the Block Pattern Directory — a useful pattern that doesn’t exist yet or could be done in another unique way.
- Design and build your pattern in the WordPress Block editor. Use the theme’s default colors so the pattern will work with other themes and variations.
- Test your pattern in WordPress Playground with different themes to make sure it looks and works as expected.
- Go to Add a new pattern on WordPress.orgWordPress.org The community site where WordPress code is created and shared by the users. This is where you can download the source code for WordPress core, plugins and themes as well as the central location for community conversations and organization. https://wordpress.org/, and paste a pattern you’ve made and tested.
- Add a clear details so people know what your pattern is and when to use it. For example:
- Title: Bold sale banner with geometric background
- Description: A banner with a sales message and a call-to-action button
- CategoryCategory The ‘category’ taxonomy lets you group posts / content together that share a common bond. Categories are pre-defined and broad ranging.: to help people find your pattern and determine where it appears in the editor.
Contribution checklist
Your pattern must:
- Be unique: not too similar to patterns already in the directory
- Be useful: combine enough blocks to create a meaningful, reusable layout
- Have a descriptive title and description
- Work with different themes and their color palettes
- Use only content you have copyright or legal rights to submit
Your pattern must not:
- Be a single block or overly simple layout (like basic two columns)
- Be a full page layout
- Be broken or unusable
- Contain spam, rude, crude, or inappropriate content
What happens next
Allow a few days for the patterns to be reviewed, then you’ll receive an email to let you know if they were approved.
When you’re ready, design and submit more patterns, explore new categories, or consider auditing other patterns in the Block Pattern Directory.
Help
Stuck? Check the getting help guide, then ask in #patterns. Search the channel first to see if someone has already answered your question.
Further reading:
