Three methods exist for pattern creation: from existing content in any editor (legacy workflow), starting fresh in the site editor, or duplicating existing patterns for modification.
Creating from existing content works anywhere in WordPress – select blocks and use the context menu to create patterns. This preserves your existing work while making it reusable.
Starting fresh in the site editor provides clean pattern creation, while duplication enables editing theme patterns that are otherwise locked from direct modification.
Sync status must be set during pattern creation and can’t be changed afterward without recreating the pattern. This decision affects how patterns behave across your site.