Jack sent me a note that for those living in the UK and who pre-order The Sims 3 will be able to download exclusive patterns from various retailers.  Right now, there are only two:

Play.com – Preorder The Sims 3 and receive an exclusive Hawaiian Floral pattern (see image below) that can be applied to outfits, furniture, walls, carpets, and more! Instructions on how to claim this offer will be emailed during the week of release.

Amazon.co.uk – Make your Sims stand out in a crowd–Pre-order The Sims 3 with us at Amazon.co.uk and receive an in-game code to unleash your Sims creativity with the Abstract Circle pattern for free. Apply this chique style to outfits, furniture, walls, carpets, and much more to personalize your whole new world.

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/02/uk-videogames/2009/preorder/Circle.jpg

Sorry if this is old news to some of you, but since I don’t keep up with UK stores, it’s new to me 🙂