Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a newcomer to the world of LEGO®, creating a collection that brings you joy is an exciting prospect. But with countless sets and themes available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.
Gitnux reports that over 400 billion LEGO bricks have been produced since the company was launched. That’s a lot of creativity fueled by these little plastic building blocks. And with a production rate of around 36 billion bricks per year, according to Gitnux, that number is only going to keep growing.
In this guide, we will equip you with effective tips to navigate the colorful world of LEGO® and build a collection that you’ll treasure.
Setting Clear Collection Goals
LEGO®, the iconic Danish brick building system, has captivated builders of all ages for generations. As per Mike Savage, this wonderful and relaxing hobby is akin to making old-school, traditional kitchen table puzzles. It is a distraction from the stressful working days.
But with so many imaginative and intricate sets available, acquiring every one that catches your eye can be a recipe for clutter and disappointment.
Setting clear collection goals allows you to focus on themes or sets that truly resonate with you, explains Mr. Savage in New Canaan, CT. This could be collecting all the sets within a favorite universe, like Star Wars™ or Harry Potter™, or prioritizing historically significant or architectural creations.
Defining your goals from the outset will ensure your collection reflects your passions and brings you lasting enjoyment.
Budgeting and Financial Planning
For a busy businessman, the LEGO building provides a great escape from the daily rat-race challenges. But, before collecting them, budgeting and financial planning are important. While LEGO® bricks may spark endless creativity, building a cherished collection requires real-world financial smarts.
According to Statista, the company generated revenue of around $8.8 billion in 2023. It is dominating the toy industry, with a brand value of $7.5 billion in 2023. There is something special about the game that has taken the whole gaming industry by storm.
With increasing popularity, budgeting and financial planning have become crucial for LEGO® enthusiasts.
By tracking income and expenses, you can avoid overspending and prioritize your goals. This allows them to build a collection that reflects their passion without financial strain. It’s like having a blueprint for your LEGO® journey, ensuring every brick adds to the joy, not the stress.
Organizing and Displaying Your Collection
According to World Metrics, LEGO bricks are made in 14 different colors. The available variety can be confusing; therefore, organizing and displaying your collection is as important as acquiring the sets. A well-organized collection makes it easier to navigate and find specific pieces. It also allows you to showcase your prized creations and share the joy of LEGO® with others.
Sorting your bricks by type (bricks, plates, mini-figures, etc.) or by color can significantly improve building efficiency. Consider clear containers or labeled drawers for easy identification.
When displaying your collection, prioritize the most visually appealing or thematically interesting sets. Utilize shelves, shadow boxes, or custom-built platforms to create a visually engaging presentation. A well-organized and displayed collection becomes a source of pride and a conversation starter.
Exploring LEGO Communities and Events
The LEGO® world extends far beyond the solitary act of building. As per the Tech Jury, there are around 400 billion LEGO pieces in the world. It means 62 bricks per person.
A vibrant network of online communities and real-world events fosters a sense of belonging and connection for collectors. These communities, often organized by region or theme, provide a platform to share, discuss, and swap tips with fellow enthusiasts.
Events, ranging from large conventions to local user group meetings, offer the chance to meet LEGO® builders, participate in projects, and witness awe-inspiring displays. By engaging with these communities and events, collectors gain access to knowledge and inspiration. It helps discover new sets, themes, and techniques that enrich their collecting experience.
Customizing and Enhancing Your Builds
The beauty of LEGO® lies not just in following instructions but in unleashing your creativity. Once you’ve mastered a set, consider customizing and enhancing it to make it your own. This could involve introducing elements from other sets to create a hybrid creation and modifying existing structures for a more personal touch. It can even be venturing into the world of MOCs (My Own Creations).
Online tutorials and resources abound with inspiration for customization, from simple part substitutions to complex mechanical modifications. By personalizing your builds, you’ll not only imbue them with a unique flair but also gain valuable problem-solving and engineering skills.
Staying Updated with New Releases and Themes
The world of LEGO® is constantly evolving, with exciting new releases and captivating themes hitting shelves throughout the year. There are many effective strategies to stay on top of the latest and greatest. Signing up for the LEGO® VIP program grants you early access to new sets and exclusive promotions.
Following LEGO®’s social media channels and subscribing to their newsletter keeps you informed about upcoming releases and teases for future themes. Popular LEGO® news websites and YouTube channels also provide in-depth reviews, discussions, and early glimpses of upcoming sets. It will ensure you’re never left out of the loop and can prioritize your LEGO® budget for the builds that spark your enthusiasm.
Sharing Your Passion for LEGO
LEGO® isn’t just about solitary building; it’s about igniting a spark of creativity that can be shared with others. You can introduce the joy of LEGO® to a younger generation, collaborate on epic builds with fellow enthusiasts, or showcase your creations online. Sharing your passion fosters connection and strengthens the LEGO® community.
You can spark a child’s imagination by building together or using your creations to inspire others on social media platforms. Participating in LEGO® contests or exhibitions allows you to share your skills and connect with a wider audience.
You must also know some interesting facts that depict your passion for LEGO. For instance, according to National Geographic Kids, the LEGO brick we play today can be 50 years old. It can fit perfectly, even into the bricks of today. The world’s longest LEGO tower is 28.7 meters high and made using 465,000 bricks.
By sharing your passion for LEGO®, you not only enrich your experience but also contribute to the vibrant and ever-evolving world of LEGO® builders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide on a theme or focus for my LEGO collection?
Consider what excites you most! Do you love a particular universe like Star Wars™ or enjoy the challenge of architectural builds? Choose a theme that sparks joy and focus on collecting sets that resonate with your interests.
What are some budget-friendly strategies for building a LEGO collection?
Prioritize used sets; look for gently used LEGO sets online or at thrift stores. Focus on smaller sets. Resist the urge to splurge on massive sets right away. Start with smaller, more affordable sets that fit your budget. Set aside money each week or month towards a specific set you’ve been eyeing.
How can I effectively organize and display my LEGO sets?
Sort your sets by theme or type (e.g., Star Wars™, City) for easy browsing. Employ clear containers or labeled drawers to efficiently locate specific pieces. Display your prized creations on shelves, shadow boxes, or custom platforms to showcase your collection.
In conclusion, building a LEGO® collection is about discovery and personal expression. By setting goals, planning your finances, and engaging with the community, you’ll cultivate a collection reflecting your passions that will bring you lasting joy. So, embrace the thrill of the hunt, unleash your creativity, and embark on a colorful adventure into the world of LEGO®.
