Count the audio inputs and outputs in your studio, including mixers, synthesizers and effect processors.
Design your studio's signal flow. Work backwards from where the signal flow starts, for example, synthesizer outputs. Finish with the final stages of the signal chain, such as the audio interface inputs. If the patchbay doesn't have enough connections for all the gear, skip the least important audio inputs or outputs. You also can skip routing inputs or outputs through the patchbay for connections you know will never change.
Connect the audio interface inputs to the patchbay outputs with audio cables. Connect the mixer channel inputs to the patchbay outputs. Connect the mixer returns to the patchbay outputs. Connect the effect processor inputs to the patchbay outputs. Connect the synthesizer audio inputs to the patchbay outputs.
Connect the audio interface outputs to the patchbay inputs. Connect the mixer to the patchbay inputs. Connect the effect processor outputs to the patchbay inputs. Connect the synthesizer outputs to the patchbay inputs.