Interaction patterns are becoming an important method for bridging the gap between analysis and design in user-centered design. Recent studies, however, have indicated problems in their usability. Our overall research goal is to improve the usability of interaction patterns. In the first part of the research ? discussed in this paper ? we have empirically evaluated the usability of interaction patterns and outline proposals for improvements. Keywords Interaction design, design patterns, UI design patterns, interaction patterns ACM Classification Keywords H5.2. Information interfaces and presentation (e.g., HCI): User Interfaces ? graphical user interfaces (GUI)