Top 10 Tips and Techniques for Building LEGO® Sets

Image source: Brick Alley

Since 1932, The LEGO Group has been captivating creative minds across the world. The insane potential of the humble brick is mind-boggling. In this blog, we will explore 10 tips and techniques for building with LEGO® bricks so you can unlock your full creative potential.

1. Plan and Visualise Your LEGO® Brick Build

Before you start building anything, it's good to have an idea of exactly what you want to achieve with your bricks. Building a complex LEGO® Technic set, or an elaborate multi-story building of your own creation? Having a clear goal will streamline your build and could fix any issues you may have even before you have them.

2. Master the Basics of LEGO® Bricks

This one might sound obvious but understanding the basics of building is essential. Getting to grips with details like how the studs and anti-studs work together is essential to a stress-free build. Having a firm grip on details like these could save you a lot of hassle and time during your builds. This understanding will form a good foundation for more complex designs in the future.

3. Explore Different Types of Sets

Image source: Brick Alley

Don’t be afraid to try something new. The LEGO Group’s range of sets is expansive, with builds that will test your creative limits. Trying some new sets could unlock new style preferences for you or simply improve your existing building techniques.

4. Freestyle It

Have you tried freestyling your builds? Why not move away from the traditional LEGO® sets and conjure your own build, without the printed instructions? Eventually, you will start to develop your own building style. In turn, this can unlock a whole new universe of creative opportunities.

5. Master the SNOT Technique

Now, it may sound ridiculous, but SNOT is no laughing matter. It stands for ‘Studs Not On Top’. What it basically means is angling your bricks to hide the studs to give your builds a more realistic aspect. The SNOT technique can really bring your creations to life.

6. Embrace Colours and Textures

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Up your game by harnessing the limitless diversity and texture that LEGO® bricks provide. Broaden the colour palette of your bricks and see your builds come alive with a vibrant new character.

7. Experiment with Advanced Techniques

Don’t be afraid to learn some of the more advanced LEGO® set building techniques like adding bespoke lighting, motors, and remote-control systems. Each of these techniques can provide a whole new level of depth to your builds to make them pop.

8. The Importance of Stability and Structure

The first brick is just as important as the last. Always keep in mind that for a successful build, you must first create a solid foundation. Building a strong foundation, whether it’s just one brick or a hundred, will streamline the rest of the build and reduce the risk of a collapse later on.

9. Practice, Patience, and Persistence

As much as we love it sometimes the build process can get a little frustrating, especially when things go wrong. Patience is the name of the game here, celebrate each challenge as it comes to overcome any frustrations.

10. Get Involved with the LEGO® Set Community

Image source: Brick Alley

The LEGO® set community is an invaluable resource when it comes to finding inspiration for your builds. There are countless forums and social media pages that are always there to lend you a hand if you need it. Also, don’t hesitate to show off your work, use social media platforms, or LEGO® set-centric platforms to display your efforts. Engaging with the LEGO® set community can help you discover fresh perspectives and a whole host of new techniques and contemporary ideas.

That concludes our top 10 tips and techniques for building LEGO® sets. Whether you are just starting out, or you are an experienced builder, we hope that this guide has helped you on your journey. Never forget, when it comes to those colourful little LEGO® bricks, anything is possible! Before you go, don’t forget to check out our honourable mentions!

Honourable Mentions

Let’s have a look at some honourable mentions that didn’t quite make it onto our list:

Keep Your Bricks Clean – Keep your bricks clean to ensure they are fully functional and can fulfil their function.  

Reserve a Space – Make sure the space you build your LEGO® set in is going to stay free, moving your LEGO® bricks halfway through a build could spell disaster.  

Set a Time Limit – Set yourself a time goal to motivate you to complete your build.  

Take Breaks – Make sure you don’t burn yourself out by taking lots of breaks.  

Buy Second-Hand Bricks – Save some money and still experience the full LEGO® set building experience. You can buy used LEGO® bricks from our trusted stores.  

Store Your LEGO® Bricks Properly - Store your bricks safely and securely to make sure they cause or get damaged.

Are your LEGO® set building glory days over but you still have all your bricks? check out our complete guide to selling LEGO® bricks.