Popular Rubik's Cube Patterns
Transform your solved cube into stunning visual designs with these classic patterns. Each pattern includes the algorithm to create it from a solved state.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Rubik's Cube is creating beautiful patterns. These designs showcase the cube's mathematical elegance and are perfect for impressing friends or taking a break from speedsolving.
10 Popular Patterns
A classic pattern with alternating colored squares across all faces, creating a beautiful symmetric design.
Algorithm
3 moves
Fun Fact
This pattern requires only 3 moves but looks incredibly complex. It's perfectly symmetric from any angle!
Creates the illusion of a smaller cube nested inside a larger one, with a distinctive frame effect.
Algorithm
15 moves
Fun Fact
This pattern was discovered accidentally by cubers exploring random algorithms. It's one of the most recognizable patterns.
Takes the nested cube concept further, showing three levels of cubes within each other.
Algorithm
18 moves
Fun Fact
This is essentially the Cube in a Cube pattern repeated. The mathematical properties of the cube make this recursive nesting possible.
Creates a mesmerizing spiral effect winding around the cube's surface.
Algorithm
15 moves
Fun Fact
The spiral pattern demonstrates how face turns can create diagonal effects, defying the cube's grid structure.
Every edge piece is flipped while remaining in its correct position. Looks scrambled but has perfect structure.
Algorithm
20 moves
Fun Fact
The Superflip is exactly 20 moves from solved (in the quarter-turn metric) and was proven to be one of the 'furthest' positions from solved.
Forms a plus sign or cross on each face of the cube using alternating colors.
Algorithm
7 moves
Fun Fact
This pattern only affects the middle layer pieces (M moves), leaving corners untouched. It's a great pattern for practicing M-slice moves.
Creates a snake-like stripe pattern that winds around the entire cube.
Algorithm
22 moves
Fun Fact
Also called the 'Snake' or 'Boa' pattern, this shows how edge pieces can form continuous lines across multiple faces.
Creates four distinct colored spots on opposite corners of the cube faces.
Algorithm
8 moves
Fun Fact
This pattern has perfect 4-fold rotational symmetry. If you rotate the cube 90 degrees, it looks identical.
Each face shows a single colored spot in its center, surrounded by other colors.
Algorithm
8 moves
Fun Fact
This pattern swaps opposite faces' colors while keeping centers in place, creating a simple yet striking design.
Creates vertical colored bands running from top to bottom of the cube.
Algorithm
16 moves
Fun Fact
The vertical stripes pattern shows that despite the cube's horizontal layer structure, vertical patterns are possible with the right algorithm.
Tips for Creating Patterns
These algorithms only work when applied to a fully solved cube. Make sure your cube is solved before attempting any pattern.
To return from a pattern to solved, perform the algorithm in reverse (same moves, opposite directions, backwards order).
Some algorithms are long. Break them into smaller chunks and practice each section before attempting the full sequence.
Try applying multiple patterns in sequence to create unique hybrid designs. The possibilities are endless!
Head to our interactive practice mode to visualize and create these patterns step-by-step.