You can do both if you like preferably before the pattern is published is preferred but you can test a published pattern
Also here’s something I try to do for newcomers here on Ribblr 
If you ever need help never hesitate to ask in the community, if you need immediate answers feel free to use the help center, search in the community, or the wiki [link below] and community guidelines if needed Happy crafting! Hope to see your crafts soon as well