A Beginner’s Guide to Collecting Legos

If you're interested in starting a Lego collection, you're not alone. Lego sets and collections are something you will find at estate sales in Olympia, Tacoma, and Gig Harbor. Collecting Lego sets can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be overwhelming for newcomers. So, let’s talk about a few tips for those beginning their collection.

A brief history of Lego

Lego, a Danish-founded company, is one of the most popular toy brands in the world. The company was founded in 1931, and Legos were initially made of wood. Plastic Legos were first made in 1947, and the interlocking bricks we are more familiar with were first made in 1957. Soon after, in 1960, Legos were sold internationally, and Lego sets were introduced to customers in 1964.

A fun fact, the name “Lego” combines the Danish phrase “LEg GOdt”, which means “play well.”

Figure out what you want to collect

There are many different types of Lego sets available, from basic building sets to licensed sets based on popular movies and TV shows. Before you start collecting, it's a good idea to figure out what you want to focus on. Do you want to collect sets from a particular theme, like Star Wars or Harry Potter? Or are you interested in collecting rare or vintage sets? Once you have an idea of what you want to collect, you can start building your collection with purpose.

Start small

It can be tempting to jump right in and start buying large sets, but it's better to start small and work your way up. Look for smaller sets that are still interesting to you and build your collection from there. Small sets are also usually less expensive, which means you can build your collection without breaking the bank.

Be on the lookout for used sets

Estate sales offer plenty for the new or experienced Lego collector. And while used sets are often less expensive, they may be missing pieces or instructions. When buying used, be sure to ask the seller about the condition of the set and what pieces may be missing.

Store your Lego sets properly

Lego sets should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. It's also a good idea to keep sets in their original boxes or bags to prevent pieces from getting lost. If you have a large collection, consider investing in storage containers specifically designed for Lego sets.

Join a Lego community

There are many online communities for Lego collectors, where you can connect with other collectors, share tips, and trade sets. Joining a community can also help you stay up to date on new releases and upcoming sets.

Starting a Lego collection can be a fun and rewarding hobby, and whether you’re looking to start your collection, or you’re a well-seasoned collector, check out our upcoming estate sales. We might have what you’re looking for.