Getting Started with Pattern Builder

Welcome to Pattern Builder

Pattern Builder is designed to help you visually build decorative wrap patterns and turn your design into clear, step-by-step wrapping instructions.

Whether you're creating a pattern from scratch or exploring one of the included sample patterns, the Builder lets you see your design take shape as you work.

Pattern Builder Beta 0.9.1

You're using a Beta version of Pattern Builder. Features may continue to change as we test and refine the program. If something doesn't behave as expected, your feedback is incredibly helpful.

A Quick Look at the Workflow

Most patterns follow the same basic process:

  1. Build your pattern using Crosspoints, Single Threads, End Wraps, and other Builder tools.
  2. Choose your thread colors using custom colors, the Thread Library, or Packs.
  3. Adjust your design using selection and editing tools such as Mirror, Inverse, alignment, and positioning.
  4. Create your Pattern Steps to define the order in which the pattern should be wrapped.
  5. Review the generated instructions, including arrows and measurements for each step.
  6. Save your Pattern Builder file so you can return to or modify the design later.
  7. Generate a PDF when you're ready for a printable set of step-by-step wrapping instructions.

Opening a Sample Pattern

Pattern Builder includes sample patterns so you can explore the program without having to build a pattern from scratch.

The sample patterns are installed in:

Documents → Pattern Builder → Sample Patterns

You can open a sample pattern in either of two ways:

  1. Select Open Pattern from within Pattern Builder and choose the sample you want to explore.
  2. Double-click a Pattern Builder .hmpb file to open it directly in Pattern Builder.

Important: Before making changes to a sample pattern, use Save As and save a copy with a new name. This keeps the original sample available for future reference.

Exploring the Builder

Once a pattern is open, take a few minutes to explore the Builder. You'll be able to see the elements that make up the pattern, select individual items, review their settings, and see how changes affect the design.

Don't worry about learning every tool at once. The Help Center breaks the major features into separate topics so you can learn them as you need them.

Build Your First Pattern

The easiest way to learn Pattern Builder is to build a simple pattern and watch how each element appears in the workspace.

For your first pattern, start simple. You don't need to create a finished decorative wrap—the goal is to become familiar with adding elements, changing their settings, and seeing how Pattern Builder responds.

1. Add a Crosspoint

Start by adding a Crosspoint to the pattern. Crosspoints define where threads cross within your design and are one of the primary building blocks used in Pattern Builder.

Choose the position and settings for your Crosspoint, then add it to the pattern. You'll see it appear immediately in the Builder workspace.

2. Add Another Pattern Element

Next, try adding a Single Thread or End Wrap. This lets you see how different types of pattern elements are represented and how they work together within the same design.

3. Select and Edit an Element

Select one of the elements you've added. Its settings can be adjusted without rebuilding the pattern from scratch.

Try changing its position or another setting and watch the design update.

4. Save Your Practice Pattern

Use Save As to give your practice pattern a name and save it as a Pattern Builder .hmpb file.

You can reopen the file later and continue working with the same design.

Where to Go Next

Once you're comfortable navigating the Builder, use the Pattern Builder Help Center to learn more about building tools, editing, thread colors, Pattern Steps, saving files, and creating PDFs.