The Gradients and Patterns palettes are much like the Editable 256 color palette: double-clicking on an existing gradient or pattern lets you modify it. The problem is that any new document will not have these new gradients or patterns available. How do you save these palettes for future use?
1. Use a Stationery document to save a modified pattern or gradient for future use.
2. Libraries can also be used to save commonly used gradients, colors and patterns. Simply draw any object and apply the pattern, gradient or color. Add this object to a Library. To use the gradient, pattern or color, add the object and click on that object with the eyedropper. Now any object you draw will have those characteristics.
3. You might want to create a document with all your custom gradients, patterns and/or colors and open it any time you wish to use one of the gradients, patterns or colors. You will be able to copy and paste a gradient, pattern or color from that document into your current document.