LEGO has always been a beloved pastime for both children and adults alike, offering endless hours of creativity and fun. While the traditional builds—such as cars, buildings, and spaceships—are iconic, there’s a world of alternate LEGO builds waiting to be explored. These unique creations go beyond the standard instructions, allowing LEGO enthusiasts to reimagine their sets in innovative ways. Whether you’re a seasoned LEGO builder or a newcomer, alternate LEGO builds offer an exciting challenge and an opportunity to let your imagination run wild.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of alternate LEGO builds, how to create them, and why they’re worth the time and effort. By the end, you’ll be inspired to take your LEGO creations to the next level.
What Are Alternate LEGO Builds?
Alternate LEGO builds refer to creations made from the same set of LEGO bricks, but in a completely different way from the original design. Instead of following the instructions that come with your set, you use the pieces provided to build something entirely new. The beauty of alternate LEGO builds lies in their limitless potential—what may seem like a few simple bricks can be transformed into a unique and imaginative design.
These builds can range from simple modifications to full-fledged, complex creations. They allow for a deeper level of creativity and problem-solving, as you’re essentially designing a new build from scratch with the same set of materials. Alternate builds challenge your engineering skills, encourage out-of-the-box thinking, and, most importantly, offer endless fun.
Why Try Alternate LEGO Builds?
1. Boost Your Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
One of the most rewarding aspects of alternate LEGO builds is the opportunity to stretch your creativity. When you break free from the pre-designed instructions, you’re forced to think about the purpose and function of each LEGO piece. This enhances your problem-solving skills as you figure out how to use the pieces in new ways. Alternate builds encourage you to experiment with different techniques and challenge yourself to think outside the box.
2. Revitalize Old LEGO Sets
If you’ve built all the designs in a LEGO set and are feeling a bit uninspired, alternate builds provide a refreshing way to breathe new life into your collection. Instead of letting unused sets gather dust, consider creating something original and personalized. It’s a great way to make the most of your LEGO investment and keep your builds fresh and exciting.
3. Foster Personalization and Customization
Alternate LEGO builds give you the freedom to design something that is uniquely yours. Whether you’re interested in building a custom vehicle, a fantasy creature, or an abstract sculpture, the possibilities are endless. Customizing a LEGO build allows you to add personal touches and create something that truly reflects your style or interests.
4. Engage in a Collaborative Experience
LEGO is often associated with solo building, but alternate builds can also be a collaborative activity. Share your ideas and challenges with friends or fellow LEGO enthusiasts, and work together to create something extraordinary. The process of brainstorming and sharing techniques can open up new avenues for creativity and provide fresh inspiration.
How to Get Started with Alternate LEGO Builds
If you’re eager to start creating your own alternate LEGO builds, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you on the right track.
1. Select a LEGO Set You’re Comfortable With
The first step in creating an alternate LEGO build is choosing a set that you already own or are comfortable with. Some sets are more versatile than others, so it’s a good idea to start with a set that has a variety of bricks and elements. Larger sets, such as LEGO Creator Expert or LEGO Technic kits, tend to offer more flexibility due to their intricate designs and diverse pieces.
2. Examine the Pieces
Once you’ve selected your set, take some time to examine the pieces and understand how they fit together. You might want to sort them by color, size, or shape to make the building process easier. This step helps you visualize what you can build and identify pieces that could serve as the foundation for your alternate creation.
3. Start Small and Experiment
If you’re new to alternate LEGO builds, start with a small project before attempting something complex. You can begin by modifying existing parts of the set or building smaller components. Experiment with different arrangements of pieces and try to see how you can repurpose certain elements for new purposes.
4. Use Online Resources for Inspiration
While the beauty of alternate LEGO builds lies in the freedom to create anything you want, sometimes a little inspiration can help kickstart your project. There are countless websites, blogs, and social media groups dedicated to alternate LEGO builds. Many LEGO enthusiasts share their unique designs and provide tips on how to build certain types of models.
5. Document and Share Your Creations
Once you’ve completed your alternate build, take photos or videos of your creation to share with the LEGO community. You might be surprised at how many people appreciate your design and offer feedback. Plus, sharing your builds online can inspire others to try their hand at alternate LEGO builds as well.
Popular Types of Alternate LEGO Builds
To give you some inspiration, here are a few popular types of alternate LEGO builds you can try:
1. Custom Vehicles
Whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or futuristic hovercraft, vehicles are a popular theme for alternate LEGO builds. You can create anything from a sleek sports car to a rugged off-roader, using the existing pieces in creative ways.
2. Miniature Architecture
If you’re a fan of architecture, consider building miniature replicas of famous buildings or creating your own custom designs. From tiny houses to towering skyscrapers, LEGO bricks can be used to bring architectural dreams to life.
3. Animals and Creatures
Building animals and fantasy creatures is a fun and challenging alternate LEGO project. You can construct anything from a detailed lion to a mythical dragon using the pieces from your set.
4. Robots and Mechs
LEGO’s versatility makes it perfect for constructing robots and mechs. If you’re a fan of sci-fi or futuristic builds, try creating a unique robot design using a variety of pieces to form articulated limbs and intricate details.
Conclusion: Let Your Imagination Run Wild
Alternate LEGO builds are a fantastic way to take your LEGO creations to the next level. By stepping outside the instructions, you unlock a world of creativity, problem-solving, and customization. Whether you’re building a custom vehicle, an intricate animal model, or even a futuristic cityscape, the possibilities are limitless.
So, grab your LEGO bricks, challenge your creativity, and start building! If you’re feeling inspired, don’t forget to share your creations with the LEGO community for even more fun and ideas. Happy building!
Yara Bryant is a contributing writer at Oxford Brick Art, where she shares her passion for LEGO creativity, design, and storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a love for brick-based artistry, Yara explores the endless possibilities of LEGO, inspiring builders of all levels to think outside the brick.
