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LEGO

as a hobby

AKA: Construction Toys.

Unlock the joy of creation with LEGO! This engaging hobby offers endless possibilities, fostering imagination, spatial reasoning, and fine motor skills. Build iconic sets, design your own masterpieces, or join online communities for inspiration and collaboration. The journey starts with a simple set or even individual bricks. Take the plunge and discover the satisfaction of bringing your ideas to life, brick by brick!

Helpful content to start lego as a hobby

We aim to provide accurate information, but errors might be found. Always exercise judgment and discretion.

📼 Videos

Short visual inspiration.

YouTube | The LEGO Story – How it all started
The LEGO Story - How it all started
YouTube | I Flooded my LEGO CITY…
I Flooded my LEGO CITY...
YouTube | The Art of the Brick by Nathan Sawaya
The Art of the Brick by Nathan Sawaya
YouTube | This LEGO Artist Builds Masterpieces Using All Black Bricks | Obsessed | WIRED
This LEGO Artist Builds Masterpieces Using All Black Bricks | Obsessed | WIRED

🎙️ Podcasts

Play an episode while exploring the page.

Spotify | LEGO® Bits N’ Bricks
Spotify Embed: LEGO® Bits N’ Bricks
Spotify | Our LEGO® Stories
Spotify Embed: Our LEGO® Stories
Spotify | Brick 14 – LEGO History: The Beginning
Spotify Embed: Brick 14 - LEGO History: The Beginning

📜 Terms

Basic lingo for orientation.

  • Brick: Any LEGO piece, regardless of shape or color.
  • Plate: A flat LEGO piece, typically 1/3 the height of a brick.
  • Stud: The small bump on top of a LEGO brick that connects to other pieces.
  • SNOT (Studs Not On Top): Building techniques that don’t connect bricks through their top studs.
  • MOC (My Own Creation): A LEGO build designed by an individual, not based on an official set.
  • AFOL (Adult Fan of LEGO): An adult who enjoys LEGO building and collecting.
  • Technic: A subtheme of LEGO focused on building complex models with gears, motors, and other mechanical elements.
  • Minifigure: The small, iconic LEGO figures.
  • Brick Separator: A tool used to pry apart tightly connected LEGO bricks.
  • PAB (Pick-A-Brick): A section in LEGO stores where you can buy individual bricks instead of sets.
  • Swoosh Build: Building a set without looking at the instructions.
  • Click In: The satisfying sound of LEGO bricks connecting.
  • BrickHeadz: A subtheme of LEGO featuring cuboid figures with oversized heads.
  • Ninjago: A subtheme of LEGO featuring ninja characters and action-packed sets.
  • City: A subtheme of LEGO focusing on everyday city life, including vehicles, buildings, and minifigures.
  • Classic: A subtheme of LEGO featuring simple bricks and sets aimed at younger builders.
  • DUPLO: Larger LEGO bricks designed for toddlers and preschoolers.
  • Mega Construx: A brand of construction toys similar to LEGO.

How to start lego as a hobby

First moves for getting acquainted and breaking the ice.

  • Watch a YouTube video for inspiration and an overview of what’s possible.
  • Buy a LEGO set.
  • For inspiration, use apps, visit lego websites, or visit a LEGO store near you.

💡 Tip: You can create virtual digital LEGO models.

📚 Books

Get read-y.

🪜 How-tos

Step-by-step tutorials.

📄 Articles

Further reading.

YouTube | Practice Mindfulness with the new LEGO® Builders Journey game – LEGO® CON 2021
Practice Mindfulness with the new LEGO® Builders Journey game - LEGO® CON 2021
YouTube | LEGO for grownups | Hillel Cooperman
LEGO for grownups | Hillel Cooperman

🌐 Websites

Go-tos for information.

🍿 Movies

Nothing like a film for inspiration.

YouTube | A LEGO Brickumentary Official Trailer #1 (2015) – Lego Documentary HD
A LEGO Brickumentary Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Lego Documentary HD
YouTube | The LEGO® Movie – Official Main Trailer [HD]
The LEGO® Movie - Official Main Trailer [HD]

FAQS

Get a clue.

What are the benefits of LEGO?
  • Boosts creativity and imagination: Experimenting with different designs and builds encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Improves fine motor skills: Manipulating small bricks helps develop dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • Reduces stress and promotes relaxation: The repetitive and focused nature of building can be therapeutic and calming.
  • Encourages social interaction: Building with others fosters teamwork, communication, and collaboration.
  • Provides a sense of accomplishment: Completing a challenging build brings a satisfying feeling of achievement.
What if I’m not good at building things?

Everyone starts somewhere! There are beginner-friendly sets and tutorials available to help you build confidence and skills. The beauty of this hobby is the freedom to experiment and learn at your own pace.

Are LEGO sets for adults?

Absolutely! LEGO isn’t just for kids anymore. The brand offers a wide range of sets specifically designed for adult builders, featuring complex builds, challenging techniques, and sophisticated themes.

Can I build my own LEGO creations without instructions?

Of course! Once you get comfortable with the basics, you can unleash your creativity and build anything you can imagine, using your own designs and techniques.

There is even a dedicated term: MOC – My Own Creation.

Are there different types of LEGO?

Yes! There are countless themes, genres, and difficulty levels to explore. From classic bricks to Technic models, architecture sets, and pop culture tie-ins, there’s something for everyone.

How much does it cost to get started with LEGO?

The cost can vary depending on your preferences. You can start with smaller sets or individual bricks, making it very affordable. As you progress, larger and more complex sets can be pricier.

Some alternative brands might offer comparable sets at slightly lower prices than LEGO.

📱 Apps

Smart assistance.

YouTube | Build Together Mission US
Build Together Mission US
YouTube | How Brickit works
How Brickit works

📦 Products

Essentials to have.

YouTube | Adults welcome
Adults welcome
YouTube | See how it was made – The Amazing Life-Size LEGO Technic version of the Bugatti Chiron
See how it was made - The Amazing Life-Size LEGO Technic version of the Bugatti Chiron

Courses

Get smart.

📍 Near You

Get together.

📬 Newsletters

Subscribe for inspiration.

💡 Tips

Additional advice for beginners.