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 Instagram Success: Growing Your Brick Photography

Master brick photography and grow your LEGO Instagram presence with lighting, composition, and storytelling tips.

Storage & Organization

Protecting LEGO from Dust: Display Cases and Cleaning Methods

Learn how to protect LEGO from dust using display cases and proper cleaning methods. Discover acrylic vs glass cases, cleaning tools, and environmental protection strategies.

Pillar Pages

LEGO Part Substitutes: Creative Alternatives and Workarounds

Overcome missing LEGO pieces with creative substitutes and clever workarounds for MOC building.

Storage & Organization

Professional LEGO Storage Solutions for Serious Collectors

Discover professional LEGO storage solutions for serious collectors including Akro-Mils drawer cabinets, custom acrylic display cases, and climate-controlled environments to protect your valuable collection.

Guides & Tips

Finding Rare LEGO Parts: Alternative Sources and Tips

Master the art of finding rare LEGO parts through BrickLink, BrickOwl, LEGO Pick a Brick, deconstructing Art sets, and scouting local sources for your MOC building needs.

Moc Building

Best LEGO Sets for MOC Parts: Builder Buying Guide

Best LEGO Sets for MOC Parts: Builder Buying Guide

Moc Building

Ultimate Guide to LEGO MOC Building for Beginners

Embarking on the journey of LEGO MOC building is an incredibly rewarding experience that allows builders to unleash their creativity beyond official sets. For beginners, getting started means...

Moc Building

BrickLink Designer Program: Publishing Your MOC Designs

The BrickLink Designer Program (BDP) offers an unparalleled opportunity for talented LEGO fan designers to transform their custom creations, known as MOCs (My Own Creations), into official,...

Buying Guides

Creating LEGO Instructions: Software and Best Practices

Learn the best software and design principles for creating professional-grade LEGO instructions for your MOCs.

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.

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 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.

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