Deconstructing a LEGO set involves carefully taking apart the built model piece by piece, often using specific tools designed for the job.
Why Deconstruct a LEGO Set?
There are several reasons why you might want to take apart a LEGO set:
- Rebuilding: You might want to build the set again from scratch for fun or to practice building skills.
- Sorting: Deconstructing allows you to sort pieces by color, type, or size for easier storage and future building projects.
- Repurposing: You may need the pieces for building custom creations (MOCs - My Own Creations).
- Storage: Disassembled sets often take up less space.
Essential Tool: The Brick Separator
The most important tool for deconstructing a LEGO set is the official LEGO brick separator. These small, flat plastic tools are specifically designed to help pry apart stubborn bricks without damaging them or your fingernails. Modern brick separators are typically orange or teal and have several features:
- Flat End: Used for lifting flat tiles and plates.
- Axle Pusher: A small stud on the end for pushing Technic axles out of holes.
- Cross Axle Hole: For removing Technic cross axles.
- Lever End: The main part for separating stacked bricks.
Using the Brick Separator Effectively
The brick separator is your best friend when taking apart a set, especially for tightly connected pieces.
- Separating Stacked Bricks: Place the lever end of the separator between two stacked bricks near an edge. Push down on the separator handle like a lever to pry the bricks apart.
- Removing Flat Tiles and Plates: For flat pieces like tiles or thin plates attached to studs:
- Put the flat end of the brick separator next to the tiles you want to remove.
- Press down so it lifts up the other side like a lever.
- Make sure the rest of your LEGO set isn't moving – you may need to hold it in place.
- The tiles should pop right off! This technique works well for 1x1 tiles or larger flat elements.
- Dealing with Jumper Plates and Small Pieces: The flat end can also be used to get underneath small pieces like jumper plates (1x2 plates with one stud) or small bricks stuck in tight spots.
Deconstructing Methodically
While you can just start pulling, a more methodical approach helps prevent damage and makes sorting easier later.
- Work in Reverse (Often): If you still have the instructions, you can sometimes follow the steps in reverse order. This isn't always practical for large, complex models, but it can be helpful for smaller sections.
- Identify Subassemblies: Large models are built from smaller subassemblies. Try to identify these sections and detach them before breaking them down further.
- Be Gentle: Avoid forcing pieces apart with excessive strength, which can bend or break them. Use the brick separator for resistance.
- Use a Clean Surface: Work on a flat, clean surface like a table or a tray to prevent losing small pieces.
Sorting Your Pieces
As you deconstruct, consider sorting the pieces immediately. This saves time later when you need to find specific bricks.
Sorting Options:
- By Type: Group all bricks, plates, tiles, slopes, minifigure parts, etc., together.
- By Color: Group pieces of the same color together. This is visually appealing but can be less practical for finding specific types of pieces later.
- By Size: Group pieces by size, regardless of type or color.
- By Set: If you plan to rebuild the exact set later, keep all its pieces separate from your general collection.
Use containers like plastic bins, drawers, or sorting trays to organize your pieces effectively during or after deconstruction.
Deconstructing a LEGO set takes time and patience, but with the right tools and approach, it can be a satisfying process that prepares your bricks for future builds.
