From tiny toy bricks to giant building blocks, Lego has captured the imagination of children and adults alike for decades. As Lego exploded from a small carpenter’s workshop in Denmark to one of the most recognizable brands in the world, the simple Lego brick has formed the foundation for endless creativity and innovation.
For giant Lego fans and master builders alike, the iconic interlocking bricks have scaled up in size while retaining the signature Lego quality and attention to detail. Read on to learn all about giant Lego building blocks – from key features and design characteristics to building techniques, safety guidelines, and more. Whether you’re looking to build a life-size playhouse for kids, create an interactive trade show exhibit, or construct a work of art, this beginner’s guide will set you up for success in the world of oversized Lego.
An Introduction to Giant Lego Blocks
Giant Lego blocks refer to plus-sized, supersized, or jumbo versions of the classic Lego brick. They resemble traditional Lego pieces in their physical design – including the hollow, plastic studs and tubes – but are radically scaled up in size.
While standard Lego bricks are about 1.5cm tall, giant Lego pieces measure between 5 and 30cm in height, with widths and depths to match. Despite their oversized proportions, they still easily interlock with patented Lego precision thanks to the company’s strict production standards.
Lego first introduced plus-sized construction pieces under their classic “Lego Soft” line in the late 1960s, which were four times the size of their regular system bricks. However, it wasn’t until the 2000s that even larger, custom-made pieces were developed specifically for public events, product displays, playgrounds and other commercial applications.
Today, giant Lego blocks appeal to more than just young kids. Artists, students, museums, corporations and more leverage their versatility to create eye-catching sculptures, interactive exhibits, educational tools, games and structures unmatched by any other building system.
Key Uses of Oversized Lego Pieces
Thanks to their colossal size and endless connectivity potential, the applications of giant Lego are practically limitless. They enable builders and creators of all ages to bring ideas to life at previously unimaginable scales.
Hands-On Entertainment
Giant Lego bricks are a popular party activity or interactive installation at corporate team building events, conferences, marketing activations and more. Attendees can work individually or collectively to construct towers, shapes and models from an endless supply of oversized blocks.
Not only do giant Lego pieces inspire open-ended creativity and experimentation, they also facilitate social bonding and collaboration in groups. The hands-on, screen-free activity often attracts crowds and leaves lasting memories.
Education and Research
From early education teachers to university researchers, oversized Lego blocks are beloved for their versatility as learning tools across subjects. Educators use them as 3D models to teach geometry, ratios, measurement, stability and friction concepts in physics, anatomy puzzles, and more.
Scientists from a range of fields – including biology, sociology and architecture – leverage giant Lego pieces as building blocks (literally) to study design limitations, model environmental systems and better understand structural engineering constraints.
Key Characteristics and Capabilities
Extreme Adaptability
Giant Lego bricks can be stacked, slotted together and pulled apart for infinite rebuilding possibilities. This adaptability enables the construction process to evolve organically in any direction as new design ideas emerge. Models and structures that would be impossible on a small scale become achievable with these supersized foundation pieces.
Durable Build Quality
Giant Lego blocks retain the LEGO® brand’s standards of precision and quality despite their plus-sized proportions. They feature the same rigid tubes and hollow studs crafted from durable ABS plastic in bright colors. This ensures every giant Lego brick achieves a perfect friction-grip connection every time while standing up to intense building demands.
Customizable Scale
While “giant” Lego blocks vary in exact size, their modular, add-on design means builders can create models of virtually any scale. Standard giant Lego bricks serve as base units which can then be built upon with smaller or larger accessories. This helps translate even supersized visions into reality.
Anatomy of a Giant Lego Block
Before diving into advanced building techniques, it helps to be familiar with the standard anatomy of a giant Lego brick. While their oversized dimensions may vary, the basic components remain consistent across most giant Lego pieces.
The main features include:
- Studs – the protruding round tops which enable blocks to interlock.
- Tubes – the open underside spaces which fit over studs.
- Window – a cutout section reserved for any internal structural components.
- Side supports – the thin walls surrounding the window.
- Base plate – a flat piece with studs on top that serves as a building foundation.
Familiarity with these core giant Lego components empowers builders to better leverage their unique properties for custom designs.
Master Builder Terminology
Part of becoming an expert in giant Lego construction is learning key terminology that describes the various nuances between brick types and building methods. Here are some of the most common giant Lego terms:
- Builder – a person who creates giant Lego designs, models, sculptures, or structures.
- BURP – “Big Ugly Rock Piece”; a basic brick without tubes or studs used to change levels.
- Clutch power – the grip strength between connected bricks.
- Plate – a flat Lego piece with studs on top but no tubes underneath.
- Stress points – areas on a model likely to be structurally weaker or prone to breaking.
- SNOT – “Studs Not On Top”; advanced building technique relying on side-placed bricks.
Familiarity with this Lego vocabulary helps builders better communicate building challenges and solutions with each other while expanding their capabilities.
Selecting the Best Giant Lego Sets
For novice giant Lego builders uncertain where to start in terms of brick varieties and quantities, purchasing pre-packaged building sets provide an excellent foundation for early projects. Here are some top-rated options that cover a range of sizes and applications:
| Set | # of Pieces | Sizes | Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CREATIVITY BUILDERS Jumbo Blocks Brick Set | 114 | 2” – 3” bricks | General building; Bright colors; Sturdy clutch | $99.95 |
| Play Platoon Giant Building Blocks | 80 | 2 3⁄4” bricks | Vibrant colors; Storage case included | $159.99 |
| LEGO Large Creative Brick Box | 755 | 1” – 3” bricks, plates | Assorted elements for advanced builders | $299.95 |
| XL Blocks Jumbo Brick Class Pack | 100 | 3” – 6” bricks | For classroom education; Super-sized pieces | $149.99 |
While basic starter sets offer versatility, purchasing separate bulk quantities of specific bricks allows advanced builders to realize more ambitious visions. Many specialty retailers offer custom giant Lego orders.
10 Expert Building Techniques
Once familiar with the basics of giant Lego assembly, reviewing advanced building techniques opens the door to designing truly monumental, elaborately detailed structures. Here are 10 tricks of the trade from Lego master builders:
1. Leverage plates – Incorporate stackable flat plates between layers of bricks to add structural integrity.
2. Reinforce from within – Make hollow tall towers more stable by adding hidden bricks inside.
3. Test stability early – Assemble the framework first and check for stability before detailing.
4. Mix brick sizes strategically – Place larger bricks lower down for a solid base.
5. Distribute weight evenly – Counterbalance heavier sections with lighter bricks.
6. Utilize SNOT – Rotate and stack bricks sideways for a huge increase in design options.
7. Overlap bricks – Layer staggered bricks like bricks for seamless patterns.
8. Maximize clutch power – Push bricks firmly together for the strongest grip strength.
9. Set firmly – Ensure the entire structure sits flat on a rigid baseplate.
10. Strut unsupported spans – Add diagonal underside bricks across gaps without directly beneath stacking.
Thinking through designs with some of these techniques in mind helps giant Lego creations achieve previously unfathomable heights and complexity safely. Don’t be afraid to test pieces together and identify vulnerable stress points before final assembly.
Giant Lego Safety First
While supersized for fun, giant Lego blocks still present standard choking hazards for small children. Additionally, their increased mass and potential height as structures means extra safety diligence is required. Follow these guidelines:
- Supervise kids under 12 years closely during play.
- Enforce a safe perimeter around giant structures.
- Set height limits and reinforce tall towers.
- Disassemble properly by removing top sections first.
- Ensure the floor or base surface is level and slip-free.
- Check bricks regularly for signs of damage or cracking.
Giant Lego blocks enable big thinking, but safety should always come first! Establish age-appropriate rules before play and monitor use of smaller decorative elements closely to prevent accidents.
Caring for Giant Lego Investments
With proper care and maintenance, giant Lego sets can provide years of creative enjoyment and retain resale value. Here are top tips for keeping them like new:
- Disassemble structures completely after each use.
- Wash bricks in warm soapy water as needed; rinse and air dry.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight over time.
- Store in moisture-free containers with dividers.
- Dust display models regularly with a soft brush.
- Super Glue any minor cracks; replace damaged bricks.
While designed for heavy activity, a little basic TLC goes a long way in preserving your investment in quality giant Lego bricks as functional heirlooms.
Are Giant Lego Bricks Worth the Investment?
For many giant Lego enthusiasts, the initial cost pales in comparison to their lifelong value as creative tools or family keepsakes. However, determining their return on investment depends significantly on your intended applications.
For those planning just occasional use, purchasing smaller starter kits in the $100-$300 range delivers plenty of dynamic pieces to build moderately sized structures. However, investing $1500+ in bulk brick Classpacks makes more financial sense for schools or those envisioning very large, permanent installations.
Not only do basic structural pieces like standard bricks retain versatility across future projects, specialized elements like figurines, wheels and windows enable endless customization possibilities down the road. Dedicated giant Lego builders consider such variety packs investments akin to art supplies.
While not cheap plastic trinkets, considering their educational benefits, reusable life expectancy of 20+ years, and premium brand cache – high-quality giant Lego sets deliver unmatched value compared to alternative building systems. Just be sure to factor in realistic storage space!
Rave Reviews from Fans
Since unveiling their supersized building possibilities to widespread audiences in the 2000s, giant Lego blocks continue to earn rave reviews from builders, educators and master builders across the hobby.
Thomas R., a Lego sculpture artist, shares:
“I’ve experimented with other large-scale building systems, but none achieve the creative flexibility and bomb-proof durability of giant Lego bricks. The ability to realize even my most ambitious sculptural visions at 4+ feet high is a dream!”
Educator Amy K. also loves their classroom potential:
“My students don’t even realize they’re learning key STEM concepts when challenges involve creating giant Lego structures! They make complex 3D principles tangible.”
Corporate event organizer Lewis T. reports:
“Every conference where we showcase a giant Lego model as a team building activity generates incredible buzz and engagement. They never fail to bring people together while leaving lasting memories!”
Clearly giant Lego blocks have won over even the most discerning builders with their proven adaptability and quality across applications.
The Future of Oversized Lego
Given the continual expansion of Lego’s adult fan base and collectible kits in recent decades, the giant Lego segment shows no signs of slowing consumer demand or innovation. Emerging directions include:
Branded sets – More official giant Lego series themed around popular IPs like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Super Mario seem inevitable.
Smart bricks – Bluetooth-connected programmable bricks could enable remote-controlled movable sculptures.
Sustainable materials – Eco-friendly plant-based polyethylene or recycled ABS offer pourable alternatives to virgin plastic.
As their disproportionately scaled building possibilities continue to ignite imaginations, even bigger and better giant Lego innovations undoubtedly lie ahead.
Building a Better Tomorrow with Giant Lego
While giant Lego blocks offer seemingly endless creative potential for builders of all ages, they also empower profound positive change in society. Not only do they minimize reliance on screens, they teach core STEM principles through hands-on play and bring communities together.
Lego’s commitment to minimizing their environmental impact also ensures giant Lego bricks will continue enlightening future generations rather than ending up as landfill. Constructing a brighter tomorrow ultimately starts with reinventing human connections – one oversized brick at a time.
When it comes to transformational tools capable of reshaping lives, societies, and our collective future on this planet, Lego bricks know no bounds in scale or purpose. Just add imagination!
Let Your Creations Grow with Giant Lego
For newcomers to the world of supersized blocks, hopefully this beginner’s overview dispels any initial intimidation factor of giant Lego bricks. Once you understand their incredible creative adaptability, durable design, and innate potential to make virtually any idea a tangible (and sizable) reality, the possibilities are endless.
While sourcing the right sets and developing go-to building skills takes some initial guidance, understanding core techniques sets you up for overflowing enjoyment whether self-directed or shared with others. Learning is a journey – start stacking today and let your giant Lego structures reach monumental new heights!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are giant Lego blocks made of?
Like standard Lego bricks, giant Lego blocks consist of top quality ABS plastic polymers for durability and clutch power. This ensures consistency across brick types for seamless interconnectivity.
How tall can you build with giant Lego bricks?
The potential height is limitless! With a solid foundation and reinforcement of top-heavy sections, giant Lego constructions over 8 feet tall are achievable. Just take precautions against collapse and earthquakes.
Can you buy individual giant Lego bricks?
Yes, many specialty retailers offer custom orders of specific giant Lego bricks in bulk quantities. This allows builders to hand-pick specialized elements to realize ambitious projects.
What colors do giant Lego blocks come in?
Giant Lego blocks are produced in the full spectrum of iconic Lego colors like red, blue, green, yellow, black, white and transparent. Some also incorporate vibrant gradients, glow in the dark effects or chrome finishes.
How much do giant Lego blocks cost?
Basic starter bundles of 100+ standard giant bricks generally range from $100-$500. Bulk orders of 500+ elements tailored to big projects typically start around $1500+. Giant Lego is an investment offset by their extreme versatility and durability.
Who makes compatible giant Lego bricks?
Lego’s official giant brick line constitutes the premium standard, however brands like Play Platoon, Creativity Builders, and Magformers also produce compatible oversized bricks at lower price points. Quality varies.