JU

Jonny Utah

LEGO collector, investment enthusiast & building technique explorer

About Jonny

I've been hooked on LEGO since my dad brought home a 6990 Monorail Transport System in 1990. I was seven years old, and that one set sparked a lifelong obsession with the brick. Like a lot of us, I went through my "dark ages" in high school and college, but the 10179 UCS Millennium Falcon in 2007 pulled me right back in.

These days, at 38, I've got a dedicated LEGO room that my wife tolerates and my kids think is the coolest thing ever. I spend my time hunting for retired gems at garage sales and estate auctions, analyzing which current sets might become tomorrow's collectibles, and building MOCs that'll never quite live up to my childhood imagination. I've learned a lot about what makes certain sets appreciate - and made my share of mistakes along the way.

I'm also a huge tech nerd - I love finding ways to blend technology with LEGO. Whether it's motorizing builds with Powered Up, programming Mindstorms robots, or just using apps to organize my collection, I'm always looking for that intersection where bricks meet bytes.

Through Brick by Brick, I share everything I've picked up over three decades of collecting, investing, and just plain loving this hobby. Whether you're trying to find the perfect gift, debating which set to add to your collection, or wondering if that sealed box in your closet is worth anything, I've probably been in your shoes.

Articles by Jonny 142 articles

Programming

Advanced Motor Control Techniques in MINDSTORMS: PID, Acceleration, and Precision

Take your MINDSTORMS programming to the next level with advanced motor control techniques. This guide covers PID controllers, acceleration profiles, gear ratio calculations, and precision...

Gift Guides

Best LEGO Sets for Learning Programming (2025)

Looking for a gift that combines creativity, engineering, and coding? Programmable LEGO sets are the perfect bridge between play and learning. In this 2025 gift guide, we'll help you choose the...

Gift Guides

Best LEGO Valentine's Day Gifts: Romantic Sets for Couples & Loved Ones

Discover the most romantic LEGO sets perfect for Valentine's Day 2025. From elegant botanical collections to couple builds, find the perfect gift for your loved one.

Buying Guides

LEGO Architecture Sets: Complete Guide for 2025

LEGO Architecture sets combine sophisticated design with iconic landmarks. Discover the best Architecture sets from budget-friendly skylines to premium landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum.

Buying Guides

27 Best LEGO Sets Under $50 (2025) - Expert Value Picks + Piece Count Analysis

Building on a budget? Discover the best LEGO sets under $50 including Botanical Collection, Star Wars, and Speed Champions. Perfect for gifts, beginners, or adding to your collection without breaking the bank.

Buying Guides

Best LEGO Star Wars Sets 2025: Ultimate Collector's Guide

Looking for the best LEGO Star Wars sets? Our comprehensive guide covers UCS builds, iconic ships, character sets, and budget options. Direct purchase links included.

Buying Guides

Best LEGO Sets for Adults 2025: Ultimate Collector's Guide

Looking for the best LEGO sets for adults? This comprehensive guide covers architecture, Star Wars, Botanical, and more. Find the perfect set for your skill level and interests, with direct purchase links.

Programming

LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor Programming Guide: From Scratch to Python

The LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor (51515) runs MicroPython on a powerful hub with 6 I/O ports, gyro sensor, and Bluetooth connectivity. This comprehensive guide teaches you real programming skills...

Programming

SPIKE Prime vs MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor: Complete Technical Comparison 2024

LEGO SPIKE Prime and MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor are both powered by the same intelligent hub and support identical programming languages. However, their target audiences, included components, and...

Programming

Web Bluetooth LEGO Controller: Complete JavaScript Tutorial with Code

Control your LEGO MINDSTORMS, SPIKE Prime, or Powered UP sets directly from a web browser – no apps to install, no native code required. This comprehensive tutorial teaches you to build real web...

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