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

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.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Collection Database: Digital Inventory Management Tools

LEGO Collection Database: Digital Inventory Management Tools

Moc Building

How to Plan Your First LEGO MOC: From Concept to Creation

Planning your first LEGO MOC (My Own Creation) involves a structured approach that moves from initial concept to final construction and display. To successfully plan your MOC, begin by...

Building Techniques

LEGO Structural Engineering: Building Strong and Stable

Learn LEGO structural engineering principles to build strong, stable models using brick bond techniques, internal bracing, load distribution, and SNOT reinforcement.

Moc Building

LEGO MOC Lighting: Adding LEDs and Effects to Your Creations

LEGO MOC Lighting: Adding LEDs and Effects to Your Creations

Pillar Pages

LEGO Workspace Design: Setting Up the Perfect Building Area

Create the perfect LEGO building area with ergonomic workspace design, efficient brick storage, optimal lighting, and inspiring displays.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Pick a Brick Wall Strategy: Maximizing Your Cup

Master strategies to maximize your LEGO Pick a Brick cup at the LEGO Store for the best value per piece.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Factory Tours: Visiting Billund and Other Locations

Experience the magic of LEGO in Billund, Denmark—from the LEGO House to the exclusive Inside Tour.

Buying Guides

BrickLink Buying Guide: Tips for Smart LEGO Shopping

Master BrickLink shopping with tips for finding rare parts, retired sets, and MOC building supplies at the best prices.

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.

Moc Building

LEGO MOC Color Theory: Choosing the Perfect Palette

Unlocking the full potential of your LEGO MOCs (My Own Creations) hinges significantly on mastering color theory, which allows builders to transform ordinary brick assemblies into extraordinary,...

Pillar Pages

Collaborative LEGO Building: Group Projects and Events

Transform individual building into a shared journey of creativity and teamwork with collaborative LEGO projects for families, teams, and events.

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