Since the Pattern Author has invested knowledge, time and effort in the design of the pattern(s), it's only fair, even if you don't consider the law, that he or she is compensated for the use of the pattern(s). That's why you pay for the printed (or digitized) pattern.

Some people think that if they own the pattern (they really don't) they can copy it and give the copies to others. The truth is, the purchaser of a pattern is paying for a limited license. They don't get to OWN the pattern at all. It remains the Intellectual Property of the Author. So, you can make the item designed by the Pattern Author, but you do not have the right to sell it for a profit without the specific permission of the Pattern Author. What you own, therefore is the printed copy of the pattern(s) and not the design itself.

Here's the bottom line -  Unless you have permission from the Pattern Author DO NOT Copy, Scan or Reproduce or distribute any published pattern or book! The law gives the Pattern Author rights to enforce these rules and some Pattern Authors do so with vigor.