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 173 articles

Pillar Pages

Creating Curves with LEGO: Advanced Shaping Techniques

Master advanced LEGO building techniques to create smooth, realistic curves that transform blocky builds into flowing masterpieces.

Buying Guides

Mecabricks Guide: Online LEGO Building and Rendering

Mecabricks is a free, browser-based platform for designing, building, and rendering virtual LEGO models with photorealistic results.

Pillar Pages

Starting a LEGO YouTube Channel: Equipment and Strategy

Starting a LEGO YouTube Channel: Equipment and Strategy

Pillar Pages

Microscale LEGO Building: Creating Tiny Detailed Models

Build stunning miniature LEGO models using microscale techniques—smaller than minifigure scale with incredible detail.

Building Techniques

SNOT Building Technique: Complete Guide to Studs Not On Top

Master the LEGO SNOT (Studs Not On Top) building technique to create smooth surfaces, intricate details, and complex angles using headlight bricks, brackets, and sideways building.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Bulk Buying: Where to Find Deals on Large Lots

Find the best deals on bulk LEGO bricks from BrickLink, eBay, thrift stores, and garage sales to fuel your MOC building projects.

Pillar Pages

LEGO NPU Techniques: Nice Part Usage for Creative Building

Master NPU (Nice Part Usage) techniques to use LEGO elements in creative, unconventional ways for stunning MOCs.

Building Techniques

Advanced LEGO Building: Offset and Jumper Plate Techniques

Learn advanced LEGO building techniques using offset methods and jumper plates to break the standard grid and create incredibly detailed, realistic models.

Pillar Pages

How LEGO Bricks Are Made: Inside the Manufacturing Process

Discover the fascinating manufacturing process behind LEGO bricks—from ABS plastic pellets to precision injection molding with 10-micrometer tolerances.

Storage & Organization

Mobile LEGO Storage: Solutions for Small Spaces and Travel

Find the best mobile LEGO storage solutions for small spaces and travel including rolling carts, portable cases with compartments, and playmat bags for easy organization on the go.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Greebling Techniques: Adding Detail to Your Builds

LEGO Greebling Techniques: Adding Detail to Your Builds

Pillar Pages

LEGO Forums and Communities: Where to Connect Online

Connect with fellow LEGO enthusiasts on the best forums, fan sites, and social media communities for AFOLs.

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