Customising Lego Sets

Something that seems to split the Lego Community is the customisation of Lego sets. Some collectors prefer to keep sets built exactly as Lego intended and will under no circumstances alter them, even when they don't appear to like them. Others will customise sets to their own liking. Of course some including myself may also keep a sealed in box collections. For investment or preservation.

AT-TE (All Terrain Tactical Enforcer)

How I Approach Lego Sets

My personal approach is as follows, if I see an opportunity to improve a Lego set or build I will. However I would not presume myself to be a good or skilled builder, I'm yet to try MOC (My Own Creation) building. Most of my modifications are simple and easy while retaining that Lego feel. The pictured above AT-TE is a good example. The middle legs and a portion of the rear are slightly altered. The AT-TE (All Terrain Tactical Enforcer) produced by Kuat Drive Yards and developed by Rothana Heavy Engineering, is an iconic Star Wars vehicle. It was originally designed as a mining patrol vehicle until it was adopted and alterations were made, leading to it's roll as the GAR's (Grand Army Of The Republic) main battle tank. Being such a fan of the lore I just like my Lego Star Wars sets to be as accurate as I can get them, while still retaining the Lego look and feel.

All that being said it is important to me to retain the original set and keep any removed parts organised, should I later want to sell the set...

Organised Spare and Removed Parts...

Being Organised...

So as well as being selective when I buy sets, sticking to minifigure scale and such. I like to keep the sets I alter organised, I utilise the grip lock bags to keep all spare parts and any I have removed (pictured above). Clearly labelled using P-Touch and all kept together, it is very easy for me to find anything I need, should I decide to sell a set or part it out on BrickLink.

I feel rather sad when people complain and cry about a set not being exactly what they hoped, the latest Arc-170 Star Fighter embodies this well. Lego is probably the most customisable thing I can think of, why not use your own creativity combined with the hard work done by Lego designers to create something truly great, that can bring you joy. When May 4th rolls around, thats exactly what I intend on doing. I will be fixing those canons, adjusting the rear canon area, and replacing the square tiles and republic flag stickers with rounded tan, tiles, printed with the republic flag. Very much looking forward to this, however as much as I want to get on with this. It makes more sense to be patient and allow your money to go further, with extra Insider Points and May 4th Gifts. Thanks for reading and may the force be with you all.