Whether you're new to the LEGO community or a seasoned builder, familiarizing yourself with key LEGO terminology can significantly enhance your building experience and help you communicate more effectively with other FOLs (Fans of LEGO).
Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most helpful LEGO terms you should know:
GWP (Gift with Purchase) A LEGO Gift with Purchase (GWP) is a special promotion where customers receive a free, exclusive LEGO set when they spend a certain amount or buy specific products. These limited-edition sets often include rare or themed items, making them highly sought after by collectors.
SNOT (Studs Not On Top) SNOT is a building technique where the studs of the LEGO bricks face sideways instead of upwards. This approach allows for more intricate and varied designs, enabling builders to achieve smooth surfaces and detailed textures in their creations.AFOL (Adult Fan of LEGO)
AFOL AFOL stands for Adult Fan of LEGO. This term is used to describe adult fans who are passionate about building and collecting LEGO. The AFOL community is vibrant and diverse, comprising individuals who often create highly complex and sophisticated models.
MOC (My Own Creation) A LEGO MOC refers to original designs that are not based on official LEGO sets. Creating MOCs is a popular activity among LEGO fans of all ages, as it allows for personal creativity and innovation. Sharing MOCs online or at LEGO conventions is a great way to get feedback and inspire others.
PAB (Pick-a-Brick) LEGO Pick-a-Brick is a service that allows fans to purchase individual LEGO pieces to build custom creations. Available online and in select LEGO stores, it offers a wide range of bricks, colors, and special elements, perfect for expanding your collection!
BAM (Build-a-Minifigure) LEGO Build-a-Minifigure is a customizable experience where fans can create their own unique LEGO minifigure by selecting from a variety of heads, torsos, legs, accessories, and hairstyles. Available at select LEGO stores, it's a fun way to personalize your own mini creation!
Minifigures LEGO Minifigures, or "minifigs," are the small, iconic LEGO figures that come with many sets. These figures often have movable arms and legs and can be customized with different heads, torsos, and accessories. Minifigures add personality and storytelling elements to LEGO creations.
LEGO Compatible
A LEGO-compatible accessory is a non-LEGO branded item designed to work with LEGO bricks and minifigures. These accessories often include custom pieces, clothing, or props that fit seamlessly with LEGO elements, allowing for expanded creativity and customization in your builds. This is not to be confused with a LEGO knock-off product which is intentionally trying to disguise itself as genuine LEGO. The Pickle Bricks Shop offers a huge selection of LEGO Compatible Accessories that can give your Minifigure that something extra you're looking for!
Brick Separator A LEGO brick separator is a handy tool designed to help disassemble LEGO pieces without causing damage. This tool is especially useful for separating small plates and tiles or for removing stubborn pieces that are difficult to detach by hand.
Plate A LEGO plate is a thin, flat piece typically used as a base or to add layers to a build. Plates are essential for creating stable foundations and adding detail to structures.
Tile A LEGO tile is a flat, smooth piece without studs on top. Tiles are used to create finished surfaces and add a polished look to builds. They are commonly used for flooring, walls, and decorative elements.
Stud The small, cylindrical bumps on top of LEGO bricks that allow them to interlock are called studs. Studs are a fundamental feature of LEGO pieces, providing the friction needed to hold bricks together securely. You'll often hear LEGO fans refer to certain pieces by their stud dimensions, for example a 'one by one brick' or a 'two by four plate' are just a few ways to explain the dimensions of a LEGO element.
Baseplate A LEGO baseplate is a large, flat piece used as a foundation for building structures. LEGO baseplates come in various sizes and colors and are essential for creating large scenes or stable environments for play and display.
LEGO Technic LEGO Technic is a sub-theme of LEGO that includes specialized pieces like gears, axles, and motors. These LEGO elements are used to create functional models with moving parts, such as vehicles, machines, and robots. LEGO Technic sets often appeal to builders interested in engineering and mechanics.
Modular Building LEGO Modular building refers to a style of building where separate sections, or modules, can be combined to create a larger structure. This method allows for greater flexibility and creativity, as modules can be rearranged or expanded over time. LEGO Modular buildings are popular for creating detailed, customizable cityscapes.
Bricklink Bricklink is an online marketplace where LEGO enthusiasts can buy and sell both new and used individual pieces and sets. It is a valuable resource for finding rare or discontinued parts, completing sets, and expanding your collection. Bricklink also features a community where users can share their creations and find inspiration. Is it a reliable source for purchasing new or used LEGO? Yes, The LEGO Group actually owns Bricklink so that makes it a LEGO approved marketplace for rare elements and retired LEGO sets! Click the image below and see what we have available for sale in our store!
Now You Know
Understanding LEGO terminology can greatly enhance your building experience, whether you're constructing a simple house or an intricate castle. By mastering these terms, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the LEGO community, follow building instructions, and improve your overall skills. Happy building!
Comments