Too Much LEGO: The Joy and Challenge of an Overflowing Collection
As an Adult Fan of LEGO (AFOL), there’s nothing quite like the thrill of unboxing a new set. The crisp crinkle of numbered bags, the glossy instruction booklet, and the anticipation of seeing your creation come to life are pure joy. But what happens when your collection begins to outgrow your space, your budget, or even your ability to keep track of it all? Welcome to the "too much LEGO" club—a delightful problem that many of us share.
The Allure of Collecting
LEGO has mastered the art of appealing to fans of all ages. From intricate UCS (Ultimate Collector Series) sets like the Millennium Falcon to nostalgic themes like Pirates and Castle, there’s always something new (or old!) to catch your eye. The possibilities for creative builds and display-worthy models are endless. For many, collecting becomes more than a hobby; it’s a passion.
But as any seasoned collector will tell you, the struggle is real. New releases are announced faster than you can build your backlog, and your wish list never seems to shrink. Couple that with limited-edition sets and exclusives, and suddenly, your storage space starts to feel as finite as a LEGO stud.
Signs You Might Have Too Many LEGO Sets
Your Space is Maxed Out: If your shelves are sagging under the weight of completed sets and your closets are bursting with unopened boxes, it might be time to reassess.
You’ve Lost Track: Can’t remember if you already own that particular Creator Expert set? That’s a sign you’ve entered deep collector territory.
The "Backlog" is a Mountain: A backlog is normal, but if your unbuilt sets outnumber your built ones, it’s worth evaluating your pace versus your purchases.
Spending Guilt: While LEGO is an incredible investment in creativity and joy, feeling stressed about your spending habits can take the fun out of the hobby.
The Challenges of an Overflowing Collection
Storage: LEGO sets take up space. Lots of space. Unless you have a dedicated LEGO room, finding storage solutions for boxes, instructions, and loose bricks can feel like solving a real-life puzzle.
Maintenance: Dusting large display pieces or keeping sets organized for potential resale requires ongoing effort. The larger your collection, the more time you’ll need to dedicate to upkeep.
Prioritizing Builds: With so many sets in your backlog, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The excitement of starting a new build can be dampened by the pressure of “getting through” your collection.
Family Buy-In: If your family doesn’t share your passion for LEGO, managing their expectations (and their space!) becomes another balancing act.
Tips for Managing Your LEGO Collection
Set Limits: Allocate a specific budget or storage space for LEGO and stick to it. This can help you prioritize the sets you truly love.
Sort and Organize: Invest in a good organization system for your loose bricks and instructions. Modular storage units, labeled bins, or even a LEGO-specific app can make a big difference.
Embrace the Backlog: Treat your unbuilt sets as a treasure trove to enjoy over time. Building shouldn’t feel like a chore—let it remain a creative outlet.
Sell or Donate: If your collection feels unmanageable, consider selling or donating sets you no longer love or plan to build. This can free up space and make someone else’s day.
Connect with the Community: Join LEGO forums, attend conventions, or participate in local AFOL groups. Sharing your passion with like-minded fans can reignite your enthusiasm and offer fresh ideas for managing your collection.
Celebrate Your Hobby
At the end of the day, having “too much LEGO” isn’t the worst problem to have. Your collection is a reflection of your creativity, passion, and dedication. By taking steps to manage it thoughtfully, you can continue to enjoy the joy of LEGO without the stress of over-accumulation. So, go ahead and build that dream set—just maybe clear a little space first.
Build, Display, Repeat.
