You use pattern preferences to control how the elements associated with pattern instances appear on the diagram view. Preferences are modified using the Preferences window.
For example, you can specify the shape of pattern instance collaborations and select how the bound state of parameters is displayed.
Changes to preferences only apply to the initial display of elements you create after you select a new setting. You can override the preferences settings for any element on the diagram view using a pop-up menu or the Properties view. A Restore Defaults button returns all settings to the original installation values.