Exploring the WordPress Pattern Directory: A Curated Experience
The WordPress Pattern Directory has undergone significant changes since its launch two years ago. With over 1,500 patterns, contributors are working to provide a more curated experience for users. However, recent updates have left some users confused about the changes to the homepage and category pages.
What are WordPress Patterns?
WordPress Patterns are pre-designed layouts that users can add to their website using the Gutenberg editor. These patterns can be used to create a variety of content, including blog posts, landing pages, and product pages. Patterns can be created by the WordPress community or by the WordPress core team.
Curated Patterns vs. Community-Contributed Patterns
The Pattern Directory now displays curated patterns by default on the homepage and category pages. Curated patterns are those created by the WordPress core team and are considered to be the best patterns available. Community-contributed patterns are still available in the directory but must be selected using the filter in the dropdown menu.
While curated patterns offer a high-quality experience, some users have expressed concern that having them display by default can make the directory appear sparse. The WordPress community is working to provide a better-curated experience in the Pattern Directory and is currently developing a new Pattern Explorer that will allow users to search through community-submitted patterns directly from the editor.
The Future of the Pattern Directory
The Pattern Directory is constantly evolving, and there are ongoing discussions about how it can be improved. One idea is to allow themes to create pattern bundles, which would enable users to filter patterns by theme. Automattic-sponsored contributor Anne McCarthy has suggested that these pattern bundles could be automatically submitted to the directory upon the theme’s approval, making it easier for theme authors to contribute them.
Updates to the Pattern Directory’s filtering are part of the redesign work on WordPress.org, and more discussions are happening on the Pattern Directory GitHub repository. The WordPress community is committed to providing a high-quality experience for users and is working to make the Pattern Directory a valuable resource for all WordPress users.
Conclusion
The WordPress Pattern Directory is a valuable resource for users looking to create high-quality content quickly and easily. While recent updates have caused some confusion, the WordPress community is working to provide a better-curated experience in the directory. With ongoing discussions and the development of a new Pattern Explorer, the future of the Pattern Directory looks bright. Whether you’re a seasoned WordPress user or just getting started, the Pattern Directory is a valuable tool that can help you create beautiful, engaging content for your website.
