Getting into the world of Great Ball Contraptions (GBC) can be challenging, especially with the scarcity of certain specialized parts that are no longer in production. These parts are crucial for building and operating a GBC module but could also be useful if you plan to make a MOC with movement! In this article, we explore the essential components and tools you need and the available alternatives to help you start your GBC journey. GBC Balls To build and operate GBC modules, you need LEGO soccer and basketballs which are no longer produced. Genuine LEGO balls, which offer the best reliability, can be expensive, ranging from 1 to 3 Euros/Dollars each on marketplaces like BrickLink. LEGO has recently produced new soccer balls with simpler patterns, offering a more affordable option at 0.5 to 1 Euro/Dollar per ball. These can be purchased from BrickLink or directly from LEGO Pick a Brick. For...

For each issue of BrickJournal Magazine, the BrickNerd team creates instructions for a LEGO mini-model to go with the theme of the cover story. For their recent issue about landscaping, we partnered with LEGO Master Model Builder Joey Klusnick to create instructions for an upscaled LEGO pine tree. Building the Classic Tree Other than the 2x4 brick, perhaps no single LEGO element is as instantly recognizable as the LEGO pine tree. At more than 50 years old, the large pine tree (also called a spruce tree) has only ever been produced in green and bright green with frosted tips—and it has only come in 150 sets. Yet for how iconic the tree element is, it is shockingly “out of system” with an oversized circular base and no other standard connection points from top to bottom. Designing circular creations will always be a challenge, but certainly when all those half circles emanate...

Any LEGO fan can’t help but be impressed by large LEGO sculptures. In recent years life-sized car models have become an increasingly common subject. Join BrickNerd as we look at a sampling of these models and try to separate the mundane from the truly inspirational. California – The Land of Cars via elsief1 The first time I saw a life-sized LEGO car was at LEGOLAND California in 2004. The driving school attraction had just gotten Volvo as a sponsor and an XC90 SUV was placed outside the school entrance. It was certainly impressive just due to the sheer scale of the model! The curves of the vehicle were well represented using basic bricks and plates, while black bricks were effective for the glass of the windows. If I’m recalling correctly, the model was initially displayed on the ground before the raised simulated rock platform was added. As part of the corporate...

For those who are interested, Amazon is running a great deal on the LEGO City Space Construction Mech (60428) which is on sale for 42% off. The 140 piece set is now listed at only $6.39 and can make a great Christmas stocking stuffer if you’re getting your shopping done early. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The post LEGO City Space Construction Mech (60428) Amazon Sale – August 2024 appeared first on The Brick Fan. Original linkOriginal author: Allen "Tormentalous" Tran

Bob Ross: The Joy of Painting by BrickAbe is the latest project to achieve 10,000 supporters on LEGO Ideas. The build features a recreation of Mountain Retreat from Season 3, Episode 1 and also includes a television showing one of the episodes. The project joins Claw Machine Wallace & Gromit – A Grand Day Out, Pioneer CDJ 2000 Nexus Multi Player, Impression Sunrise – Monet, The Loneliness of the Voyager – NASA’s Voyager Mission, Humpback Whale Breach, Tintin – Space Rocket, The Iron Giant in the Forest, Tetris Solid, Working Image Projector “Magic Lantern”, Popcorn Machine, Arsenal F.C. – The Invincibles, Sony Walkman, Sony Walkman, Hydroelectric Power Plant, Floating Sea Otter, Avatar: The Last Airbender!, Blacksmith – Wild West, Bluey!!, New Holland CR Combine, Wednesday The Room and The Balcony, Lisbon Tram (Electrico 28), Market Village, Modular Post Office in Neoclassical Style, Working River Rapids Ride – Fairground Rafting Coaster, Italian...