Declare Your Independence: "Buy Custom"

Citizens,

The Fourth of July holiday is approaching here in the states. As we celebrate our freedoms, I encourage you to exercise your freedom to play 'outside the box' and visit any one of the following custom houses over the weekend. Check out their wares, and if the spirit moves you, buy some. A lot of what is represented here are the passions of individuals and their love for an androgynous, plastic humanoid that stands roughly 1.5 inches tall.

I will be celebrating this weekend by taking a well deserved break from blogging. I'll be back after the hiatus with the last two previews from Series 2 Collectible Minifigures as well as some great customs.

Enjoy your freedoms where ever you may be, citizens of Minifig Nation, and remember, "Buy Custom" this holiday weekend.

Cygnet
Minister of Information, Minifig Nation

Please visit the following custom houses this weekend:

• BrickForge
• BrickArms
• Amazing Armory
• BrickTW
• Fine Clonier
• MinifigMaker
• Brickmania
• Arealight
• miniBIGs
• Little Armory
• Slick Bricks
• Clone Army Customs

NOTE: Apologies to those I may have forgotten. Please add your favorites in the comments section.

Doing Bad, Bad Things with True Blood Minifigs

MinifigMaker steps out of the Star Wars universe to bring you these great True Blood minifigures.

Eric Northman, Sookie Stackhouse, and Bill Compton in all their minifigure glory (or is that gory?!). I love how the two vampires have blood trickles coming out their mouths, while Sookie has a couple of puncture wounds on her neck. I'll be interested to see if MinifigMaker develops any of the other characters from the series, book or TV.

(Via MinifigMaker's Flickr stream)

Collectible Minifigures on BrickLink: June 2010

As we are entering into the second full month of sales of the Collectible Minifigures Series 1 on BrickLink, some interesting details are emerging.

The first question that I'm sure everyone is asking is which figure is the most popular? Using units sold as an indicator, The Cheerleader (944 units) and The Zombie (902 units) have sold the most. Adhering to the laws of supply and demand, these two figures also have the largest average price paid; $4.44 for the Zombie and $4.40 for the Cheerleader.

I don't expect prices to fall much further than they are currently. LEGO claims to have stopped production, so distribution has likely plateaued. Most secondary resellers have likely placed their inventory as well. As quantities diminish prices are likely to start creeping back up again.

The minifigures in order of popularity are as follows: Cheerleader (944), Zombie (902), Robot (831), Ninja (770), Clown (692), Forestman(664), Dummy (649), Caveman (642), Nurse (576), Cowboy (574), Spaceman (573), Skater (565), Wrestler (561), Magician (555), Tribal Hunter (529), and Diver (445).

The biggest surprise for me is how well the Ninja is selling. A common figure (5 per case), The Ninja had a fair Army Building Potential but didn't appear to show strong potential in online polls. It just goes to show you should never count a ninja as down or out.

The "dud" of the series seems to be the Deep Sea Diver. The lowest number sold to date (445) the most inventory in stock (816 units for sale) and the lowest average going price ($2.40). Expect to see a lot of these 'floating' around BrickLink for some time.

I will have to say, that although the prices seem high, BrickLink is probably your best bet to obtain figures in the secondary market. If the prices I've seen on other sites, especially eBay , are any indication, then it would be worthwhile to open an account today.

(Info via BrickLink catalog)

LEGO Collectible Minifigures Series 2: The Traffic Cop

The Traffic Cop is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories
The Cop is composed of four main parts: helmet, head, torso, and legs.

The helmet is the same as part 30171, most recently appearing with the Space Police III sets.

The head features a new sunglasses print with reflector type lenses.

The torso assembly is tan in the torso and arms with reddish brown hands. The torso print is new resembling a shirt often seen on law enforcement officials.

The hips and legs are both black and feature no print.

The accessories for this figure is a standard pair of handcuffs in light blueish gray (part 61482) and a 1x2 tile (part 3069) with print to make it look like a ticket book.

Detailed pictures of all parts and accessories can be seen here.

Army Building Potential
The army building potential for the figure is moderate. City police minifigures don't often have a lot of variety in their uniforms. This would be a way to add diversity to LEGO law enforcement with a couple of quick head changes.

Feeling It Out
There's not a lot to choose from here. You might go for the helmet or handcuffs, but both are likely to be difficult to discern from just feeling the bag.

Bar Codes
The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio
“Mine are the safest streets in town!”

The Traffic Cop patrols the streets, looking for anybody who’s speeding or up to no good on the roads and highways. Don’t try to break the law in his city, because he’s sure to find you and give you a ticket!

The Traffic Cop doesn’t want to seem mean, but he knows how important it is to enforce the rules and keep the city safe. After all, protecting the people who live there is a huge responsibility!

The Big Draw
Outside of the opportunity to add diversity to your City police force, there is not much else.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

BrickJournal Has Some Scoop on Series 2

Joe Meno, editor of BrickJournal magazine, has been blogging about the new Collectible Minifigure Series 2, due out in a couple of months. He's been sharing some early pics from his business trip to Billund a few months ago.

In his most recent post he reveals that the designers have been slipping 'Easter eggs' onto the figures, usually related to their names. He confirms that initials on The Lifeguard's bathing suit are, in fact, the designers initials. Unconfirmed 'Easter eggs' from Series 1 include the name 'Dawes' on The Nurse's chart, and the license plate number from The Demolition Dummy.

We'll keep scouting for more of these details as they become available.

(Via BrickJournal Journal)

TRU BOGO 50% Holds for Collectible Minifigures

Straight from our man on the street, Nick W., the Toys R Us BOGO 50% off sale (US) may not cover Star Wars but does extend to Collectible Minifigures.

Now this assumes that you'll be able to find the figures at retail, and it also depends upon the policies of your local TRU, but if you can get it this is a great opportunity.

Combine this info with the bar codes from our guide or Brickset, and you have a chance to complete you collection at a quarter of the price! Hurry though, the sale ends July 3rd.

tim VS fRED by filmyguy1

I was perusing YouTube for new brickfilms over the weekend and came upon filmyguy1. tim and fRED are a couple of recurring characters for filmyguy. In this film you see what happens when a commitment to playtime goes a little to far...

Deparately Seeking JasBrick

On Monday I was looking over the Flickr accounts and noticed that JasBrick had posted a message seeming to indicate he was calling it quits!

Now, a couple of weeks ago Jas was toying with the community where he seemed to be making similar proclamations, but in the end declared he was 'just kidding'.

Truth be told, I was hoping to do an interview with Jas and had been doing some research this past weekend.

Not that it's any of my business, but if anyone knows how I might contact him, please let me know at 'uglyduck.bricklink@gmail.com'. In other words, please don't post his contact information in the comments.

Thanks!
Cygnet
Minister of Information, Minifig Nation

LEGO Space Magnet Promotion

I received the Summer 2010 LEGO catalog this past weekend, and there were a couple of notable items.

The first involves the gentleman on the right. If you spend $75 on Shop at Home, LEGO Stores, or through the catalog, you get this spaceman magnet for free. As with other magnet sets, the figure can be removed from the magnetized base.

Now, and this is important, if you are ordering online you must enter the code "USSM" at check-out. In the past the promo items have been automatically been added to your order once conditions have been met. I talked to one of the customer service representatives on Saturday who said that you might not be able to use other coupon codes, like Brickmaster, and the promotion code, so be aware.

The second item of note is that the new Star Wars magnet set featuring Kit Fisto, Bariss Offee, and Captain Jag should be available soon. As of this morning it is listed as 'sold out' online, but the catalog says, "Order now! Available to ship July 1st." Another call to LEGO customer service and they say it isn't sold out yet, it just hasn't been activated.

Finally, the set 10213, Shuttle Adventure, is now up for sale. Also set 10212, Imperial Shuttle, is on line and listing availability on September 1st! Perhaps that's when we can expect the rest of the Star Wars Summer sets too!

(Via LEGO.com)

LEGO Collectible Minifigure Series 2: The Surfer

The Surfer is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories

The Surfer is composed of four main parts: hair piece, head, torso, and legs.

The hair piece is the same as that featured on the Series 1 Skater, but in blond. This will be a new color for this part, and likely to be sought after given the reaction to the Skater hair piece.

The head features a new facial print with stubble. I'm beginning to wonder if any male minifigures shave on a regular basis?!

The torso assembly is all yellow with a bare chested print. I believe this is the only bare torso print in the classic yellow color.

The hips are blue while the legs are yellow. The print on the front and sides of the legs complete the shape of the bathing suit. The floral print bathing suit is new for the LEGO universe.

The accessory for this figure is a surfboard with palm tree print. This is a new part, previously not available. There were a series of wind surfing boards (part 6075), but the stud placement was different and there was a hold in the middle of the board to accommodate a post. Although difficult to tell at this point, this surfboard appears to be shorter than the previous part. The edges of the surfboard are shaped to allow the figures to grip the board. Also, there are brick connections on the bottom of the board.

Detailed pictures of all parts and accessories can be seen here.

Army Building Potential

The army building potential for the figure is moderate. Not to be sought after to build an army of surfers, but the parts may be desired in multiples.

Feeling It Out

The surfboard would be the part to feel for here.

Bar Codes

The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio

“G’day, dudes and dudettes!”

Wherever the waves are radical and the surf is bodacious, that’s where you’ll find the Surfer. He’s the most relaxed guy around, but as soon as it’s time to hop on his surfboard, nothing can keep him from hanging ten from sunrise until sunset!

The Surfer has traveled all over the world and surfed at every beach he can find. No matter where he goes, he’s always sure to find a fun challenge on the rolling, splashing ocean!

The Big Draw

As it was with the Skater, the hair piece will be a sought after part for the creation of sig figs. The the torso and legs also have the potential to be desired for custom applications. The surfboard will, of course, be a hot item due to it's uniqueness.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

The Mandalorian Files with Jango and Skully

...the bounty is out there.

(Via MinifigMaker's Flickr stream)

Fancy Pants' Doorway and Cannes Lions 2010

Jordan Johnson (AKA Fancy Pants) has posted this brief clip on his YouTube channel. The short was created as an entry into the 2010 Cannes Lions contest hosted on MOFILM.com. The objective was to create a film that allowed kids of all ages to connect with the LEGO brand. The winners have already been announced, and you can see them here. I personally thought "Build Anything" by Temujin Doran would be a great campaign idea for the brand.

Even though Jordan didn't place, we all win by being able to see his entry. Enjoy!

Hopper's Nighthawks in LEGO (x3)

Edward Hopper started to paint his iconic "Nighthawks" immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. I don't know what Alex Eylar (AKA Profound Whatever) was doing the night he started these LEGO vignettes, but the result is brilliant.

There have been many parodies and variants of this painting over the years. Alex, has added three in just a matter of days.

Here's the first, rather straightforward version...

...then the zombies attacked...

...but then the space police arrived, vaporized everyone, and restored order to the universe.

(Via Profound Whatever's Flickr stream)

Collectible Minifigure Rarity

When I started the Collectible Minifigure Guide, I was under the impression that if you bought a case of 60 mystery bags, you would have an equal chance of obtaining any of the 16 figures. It may have not always been the same mix, but the probabilities were the same. Some folks on the BrickLink forums, have me thinking otherwise.

There are claims that the ratios of certain figures were consistent from case to case, but some figures were more inherently rare. This also assumes that some of the figures were made at lower quantities than others. The hypothesized rarities for Series 1 are as follows:

- Commons (5 per case): Ninja, Diver, Crash Test Dummy
- Uncommons (4 per case): Robot, Spaceman, Forestman, Cowboy, Magician, Caveman
- Rare (3 per case): Zombie, Tribal Hunter, Wrestler, Cheerleader, Clown, Nurse, Skater

Looking at this list, its difficult to say how these rarities were determined by TLG. One might say production costs would be a factor, with figures having more custom parts or more intricate print on the torso or legs having fewer quantities.

Expect there to be similar rarities in the Series 2 collection. Joe Meno of BrickJournal has posted a small article on Facebook about his trip to Billund and his briefing on Series 2 . Joe mentioned that because The Spartan has so many accessories, he is likely to be "the rarest of the second wave". The US will likely see fewer of these figures overall, similar to what's happened on Series 1 distribution.

With the launch of Series 2 likely to start in Europe in August (if not July) and the US in September, we shall soon see which figs will be the rarest of them all.

miniBIGS' Zombies Attack

With all of the custom zombie hunters popping up as part of the World War Z movement, miniBIGS felt they needed something more to hunt than a hoard of dead business men.

Enter "Al" and "Myron". These two gents premiered at Brickworld Chicago this last weekend. There is a third, female zombie figure ("Sharon") not shown here.
Each figure will be available for sale at miniBIGS' site soon. The artwork featured on the head and torso print is courtesy of Myron McMilin.

(Via miniBIGS)

But There's a Hotel Five Feet from Here!

Forrest Whaley has been busy recently. This his third brick film in as many weeks!

This time we find out what really happened on Hoth between Luke and Han...

Orrange Thinks Boba's Gun Sucks Too

Check out this custom Boba Fett blaster Orrange created for himself. Everything about the new 2010 Boba Fett is awesome...except the gun.

Compare the reference photo of Boba's custom EE-3 carbine rifle to Orrange's creation. A definite improvement over a technic pin stuck on a standard LEGO Star Wars blaster.

(Via Orrange's Flickr stream and Wookiepedia)

Eurobricks Def 's Custom Designs

Eurobricks' member 'def' has designed a series of minifigures that really should be seen.

Largely divided into three themes, Steam Land, Hotel, and Mythology. Each one has some nice design elements.

My favorite is the Medusa figure pictured here. I thought something similar, but with a snake tail instead of legs would be quite nice for the Collectible Minifigures Series 3. A perfect compliment to The Zombie, Witch, and Vampire.

See the rest of def's designs on the Eurobricks forums.

(Via Eurobricks)

LEGO Video Game Round-Up

We usually don't cover the LEGO video games, but there are enough trailers floating around after E3 that feature the fig that I thought I could give 'em at least one post.

The first trailer is a brief cinematic trailer for LEGO Universe that premiered at E3. Since seeing the promotional materials for this project, I've been hoping that some the characters featured would be made into actual minifigures.

The second clip is a trailer for LEGO Star Wars III: The Clone Wars which will bow in 2011.

The final trailer is for LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4. The particular trailer is focused against year 4 and the Triwizard Tournament. I believe this game debuts next week, so if you like what you see you won't have long to wait!

LEGOfussball.eu Source of World Cup Brickfilms

Have you been watching the LEGO recreations of World Cup 2010 highlights? Did you know that although The Guardian has often received credit for these brickfilms, they are actually the efforts of Fabian Moritz and LEGOfussball.eu? You did?! Oh...um...well, for those who didn't know...

There's a short article on Tubefilter News that shares the history of Fabian's passion. You can even go to LEGOfussball.eu where you can see a trove of these brickfilm highlights, past and present. You can see the most famous film of the series (USA vs. England) below.



With the coverage of World Cup action this year, the real stars of the tournament appear to be those damnable vuvuzelas. Perhaps we'll see a soccer/football fan in Series 3 of Collectible Minifigures with a vuvuzela accessory?

(Via Tubefilter and LEGOfussball.eu)

LEGO Harry Potter Minifigures: Quidditch Teams

Now Showing

These four Quidditch players will be appearing in set 4743, Quidditch Match. Playing for Gryffindor we have Harry and Oliver Wood. Slytherin is fielding Draco Malfoy and Marcus Flint.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories

Each figure is composed of five parts: hair piece, head, torso, cape, and legs.

The torsos feature sweater designs in the house colors. There are also the house coat of arms on the left-hand side. The overall sweater design is new and has not been featured on a Harry Potter minifigure in the past. The closest part I could find was this.

The legs on all of the figures have white legs and hips without print.

It's difficult to tell what material the capes are made of on each of the figures, or if there will be print on the back. We can tell that the Gryffindor players will have dark red capes, while the Slytherin capes are green and white.

The each of the figures come with a broom (part 4332), brown for the Gryffindor players and black for Slytherin.

Set pictures also show two brown helmets that can be used on these players. These helmets appear to be part 30171.

Army Building Potential

The ABP for these figures is 'moderate', mostly due to the sweater design with the intent to develop entire Quidditch squads.

Big Draw

The sweater design is nice and has potential for custom designs.

According to Brickipedia, the set is expect to retail around $20 USD. A great price for five minifigures plus additional parts!

(Pictures via Eurobricks)

(Back to the LEGO Harry Potter Minifigure Guide)

Looking To Trade Collectible Minifigures

Last week I was fortunate enough to place an order during the brief window of time where LEGO Shop at Home lifted the limits on Collectible Minifigures. Despite ordering 60 mystery bags; however, I was three figures shy of one set and four shy of completing another.

I am currently missing The Cheerleader (x2), The Skater (x2), The Cowboy (x2), and The Ninja.

Given that it's difficult to find a BrickLink vendor who has all of these figures (at reasonable prices) I'm considering trading for the missing figs.

Ideally I would be willing to trade for The Cheerleader, The Skater, and The Cowboy; thus, bringing me up to one full set. I would have the second partial set and my current BrickLink inventory to negotiate with.

Sounds easy right? Well...despite the saying about "choosy beggars", I have a couple of restrictions:

• I'm looking to trade full minifigures with accessories and stand.
• My minifigures are out of the package, but I would be willing to take open or sealed bags.
• You must be a registered buyer/seller on BrickLink with a feedback rating of 10 or more and no neutral or negative feedback.
• Just as I would be responsible for shipping costs to you, the same would be true on your end.
  

If you are interested, drop me a line via BrickLink (cygnet) or e-mail me at 'uglyduck.bricklink@gmail.com'. Please let me know what figures you are looking for in your message. I'll be taking submissions until next Thursday, July 1st (12:01 am EST). I'll then drop you a line if we have a deal, and work out the details. Please, don't send me anything until we've talked and I've agreed to the trade.

Thanks in advance!

Cygnet

JasBrick's Hand Painted Goodness

JasBrick is back with some great hand painted minifigures.

First up are these two zombie hunters. The hand painted t-shirts are what really make these two. The gent on the left features Danger Mouse against the Union Jack. The one-eyed feller on the right is sporting a Kermit tee where the frog is packin' heat.

Also check out the beret with the painted eagle insignia. Remember we are talking about minifigure scale here!

His second set features some great Killzone troops. Jas has a knack for taking great custom parts from Hazel and co. and plussing them with the paint. Might Jas be entering these into the Custom Killzone Minifigure Contest?

(Via JasBrick's Flickr stream)

Amazing Armory War Machine

Amazing Armory...War Machine...Minigun...Now on sale...'Nuff said.

(Via Amazing Armory BrickLink store)

SwapIt Collectible Minifigure Promotion (UK)

It looks like the SwapIt online hunt for Collectible Minifigures has begun in the UK!

You can click the image to enlarge and see the rules, but the gist of the promotion involves looking for 16 virtual Collectible Minifigures hiding on several partner sites. For each figure you find, you get 20 swapit points and an entry into a LEGO prize drawing. Find all 16 and you get 150 points for your troubles. The swapit points can then be used to bid on mystery bags.

This is actually a pretty cool promotion and the scavenger hunt aspect should be fun. UK readers should check it out when they get a chance.

(Via SwapIt)

Tournament of Retribution II Continues to Rage

The Classic-Pirates' Tournament of Retribution II continues on Eurobricks, but there is still time to take your revenge. Right now it would seem the redcoats are kicking the stuffing out of the bluecoats.

After perusing the forums, the brick comics by Commodore Hornbricker are a definite standout. In the one here they rip the faces off of the competition.

Even if you don't participate in the contest, at least check out the great collection of comics.

(Via Eurobricks)

LEGO Collectible Minifigures Series 2: The Skier

The Skier is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories

The Skier is composed of four main parts: hat, head, torso, and legs.

The hat is a new version of the knit cap (part 41334) in what appears to be "medium blue". This variant appears to cover the minifigure head more around the ears (if minifigs had ears) and the band appears to be wider. This would be a new part for the LEGO universe.

The head features transparent orange print for sports glasses and a simple smirk. This is a new print for minifigure heads.

The torso and arms are also medium blue with red hands. The torso print features a zipper and numbered over shirt. It is not known what the significance of 211 happens to be (possible Easter egg or inside joke). Set 211, Mother and Baby with Dog, was released in 1976 and featured some of the first minifigures, but I don't believe it was the first set to feature them.

The legs and hip assembly may both be medium blue, but the hip assembly appears to be a different color in some pictures (light blue?). Regardless, the legs have horizontal racing stripes printed in a lighter blue color on the front. The print does not extend to the sides or back of the legs.

The accessories that come with this figure are a pair of ski poles and skis. Both the poles and skis are a new design, not previously available. The ski poles and skis fit together so that they can snugly fit in the hands of the figure. Each package comes with three ski poles.

Detailed pictures of all parts and accessories can be found here.

Army Building Potential

The ABP for the figure itself is moderate. The skiing equipment would be the main draw here. The new knit cap may also be of interest, but winter scene builders will want to populate their MOC slopes with several skiers.

Feeling It Out

Although it could be difficult due to their size, you could try and feel for the skis and/or poles through the bag.

Bar Codes

The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio

“I’m going to make it this time!”

The enthusiastic Skier is constantly plunging off cliffs, crashing into trees, and performing accidental loop-the-loops through the air. He can’t help tackling any new downhill challenge that he comes across, even if his attempts don’t always end so well!

What everybody likes about the Skier is that he never, ever gives up. No matter how many times his skiing feats end in wild disaster, he always climbs right back up the mountain, straps on his skis, and tries his luck one more time. After all, the fifteenth time might just be the charm!

The Big Draw

The skiing equipment and knit cap are the big draws here as they have not been available previously.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

This Would've Never Happened in The Dragon Army

Yes, The Brother's Brick blogged this earlier, but you have to admit that it's good. Sometimes "simply stated" says it best...

"William just joined the army and this is his first time away from home. He finds out the hard way that when you wash your uniform, you should use cold water."

If you are wondering how Matthew Hurt was able to turn the white panels pink, supposedly this is a result of a misprint by TLG. I couldn't find more details on the misprint. If someone knows more, let us know in the comments.

Speaking of LEGO Kingdoms I still have a few items left from the Dragon Army battle packs. Head to my BrickLink store to check them out.

(Via The Brothers Brick and Matthew J Hurt's Flickr stream)

More LEGO World Cup Goodness from Guardian

The Guardian has posted a new LEGO brickfilm depicting the "highlights" from the England vs. Algeria World Cup match. The most notable part of the clip is when England's Wayne Rooney leaves the field and says, "Nice to see your own fans booing you, you football 'supporters'."

As the article notes, the quote seems quite different when coming from the smiling face of a minifigure.

(Via SportsGrid.com)

Harry Potter Microsite Now at LEGO.com

Toys N Bricks breaks the news that the Harry Potter microsite is now up on LEGO.com. It looks like there will be a series of "trading card" images released over time. Right now only Harry is showing.

The number at the bottom? It corresponds to the set that the minifigure shown will appear. No other details for now.

I'm a little surprised to see this given that the sets aren't due to be released until September/October. Perhaps to correspond with the release of the LEGO Harry Potter : Years 1-4 video game due out June 29th? Has TLG learned from their Batman mistakes?

If you can't stand the suspense, check out our Harry Potter Minifigure Guide here on the site!

(Via Toys N Bricks and LEGO.com)

LEGO Collectible Minifigure Series 2: The Witch

The Witch is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories

The Witch is composed of four main parts: hat, head, torso, and slope brick.

The hat is an all black version of part 6131. In fact the last witch from the Castle Fantasy series (cas397) also had this hat.

The green head is new with no other female minifig head featured in green. This is the most unique feature of this figure.

The torso, arms, and hands are all black. The torso print features a torn neckline and green belt.

In place of the legs, there is a 2x2x2 sloped brick (3678 series) to represent a skirt or dress. The print features a spell book with a frog on the cover and potion hanging from the waist and a stitched tear near the bottom.

The accessory that comes with this figure is a brown broom (part 4332). The part has been widely available in the past in sets such as Harry Potter.

Detailed pictures of all parts and accessories can be seen here.

Army Building Potential

The ABP for the figure itself is low. I could see this being a popular character from Series 2, but not in multiples.

Feeling It Out

Due to the size of the slope brick, this may be a feature easily felt through the bag.

Bar Codes

The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio

“Am I a good witch or a bad witch?”

The Witch is a misunderstood person. She just wants to be good, but with all the magic power she has, there are times when she just can’t help being a little bit bad.

For every bad thing the Witch does, she tries to do something good...but it doesn’t always go exactly like she plans. For example, turning the vegetables growing in her neighbor’s garden into candy sounded like a good idea at the time. All of the children in town were happy about it, but her neighbor seemed really mad for some reason!

The Big Draw

I'm expecting this to be a popular character, but likely within the second tier. The head is quite unique. Given that the other parts or variants of the parts have been available previously, the head will likely generate interest.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

Sir Nadroj Needs Your Little Green Men

Sir Nadroj (AKA Jordan Schwartz) is in need of vast quantities of Little Green Men from Toy Story for an upcoming MOC he has planned. Here's the skinny from Jordan himself via Flickr:

"I am in need of as many Little Green Men I can get my paws on for a Buzz Lightyear of Star Command inspired MOC; right now, I only have a very small handful, and if you know the show and/or Buzz Lightyear's Astro-Blaster attraction at any of the Disney parks, you know there are quite a few of these lil' buggers running around. I'm just as happy with the sullied ones from the Trash Compactor set, too.

I'd very much like to trade because the BrickLink prices are too steep for me [I'd consider buying them from you, too, if you will haggle. ;-)] However, I only want to trade/buy if you have a nice little quantity of them. I can't afford paying shipping costs to get one or two from a bunch of people. So, if you've got more than three or four and you're willing to trade/sell them to me, post here or drop me an MF."

He goes on to say that if you don't send him all your LGMs he'll send over this over-sized Chunk to "negotiate". Just kidding, that's ridiculous...he'll just show up at your house and break your legs. ;)

(Via Sir Nadroj's Flickr stream)

Gargarox's Space Diner

Titolian is back with this great sci-fi diner. It reminds me of a scene in Blade Runner where Deckard and Gaff meet to talk.

The cast of characters in this MOC are odd, varied, and fantastic!


(Via Titolian's Flickr stream)

MinifigMaker Conjures Up The Death Watch

As you may know, I've expressed my hope for a Clone Wars Mandalorian Battle Pack for 2011. This started after the Death Watch storyline aired on the animated Clone Wars series.


Even if LEGO doesn't go down this path, we can still look to the customizers to make this a reality.



MinifigMaker has designed this custom figure of the Mandalorian Death Watch leader, Pre Vizsla. Although not available yet on their store, he will come with a jet pack and weapon. One can only hope its his custom "darksaber".

(Via MinifigMaker's Flickr stream)

LEGO Collectible Minifigure Series 2: Disco Dude

Disco Dude is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories

Disco Dude is composed of four main parts: hair, head, torso, and legs.

The hair is the same as part 87995 which appeared with the Series 1 Clown, but in the new black color.

The head print is new and provides a new entry into the series of minifigure heads with sunglasses.

The torso is white with purple arms and yellow hands. The torso is fantastic with chest hair and disco medallion. The white vest is a nice touch too.

The legs and hip assembly is white without print.

The accessory that comes with this figure is a 2x2 printed tile made to look like an album, "Brick Fever". It's too bad we couldn't get a disco ball...

Detailed pictures of all parts and accessories can be seen here.

Army Building Potential

The ABP for the figure itself is low, but the black afro will likely be sought after in multiples. This might bump the ABP up to "moderate".

Feeling It Out

The afro, definitely look for the afro.

Bar Codes

The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio

“Hey, everybody! Let’s Disco!”

The Disco Dude has traveled back in time to relive the days of disco dancing, bell-bottom pants and the very first LEGO Space sets. He can’t help but love it! Whenever he hears a disco beat and sees the big disco ball lights start flashing, he gets caught up in the music and just can’t stop dancing.

And what’s more, it’s his love of disco is contagious! Wherever the Disco Dude starts dancing, everybody around him can’t help but join in on the fun. Pretty soon, it’s all one big ‘70s disco dance party!

The Big Draw

"Disco Dude" is a whole bunch of cheesy goodness. The figure itself is just cool, and I could see people seeking it out even it they have no interest in the rest of Series 2. The black afro will easily be a part sought after by many.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

Doyle and Ellis Bring You Denizens

Christopher Doyle and Sigrid Ellis are teaming up for a new, on-line brick comic - Denizens.

A new page will be available on Tuesdays and Saturdays each week. It's not known if this will be similar to the wacky humor on Chris' other comic, The Brick House. The front cover (shown here) has definitely piqued my interest.

Details on where the comic will be hosted are forthcoming.

(Via Reasonably Blogged)

Mariann's Got The Goods from Brickworld

Mariann Asanuma just got back from Brickworld Chicago and is reporting on all the fun from over the weekend. On her site are these two pics of cool new products from BrickForge, available in the coming months.

Check out the centaur body, stone axe, and violin in blue. Not to mention the scimitar and brass knuckles in gold. Can't wait for these to go on sale!

(Via Mariann Asanuma's Modelbuildingsecret's Blog)

LEGO Collectible Minifigures Now at Store

I don't know what else to say other than, I have a few of the LEGO Collectible Minifigures from Series 1 up on my BrickLink store. I've priced the figures at $2.99 USD apiece and flat-rate pricing*. Both the accessories and minifigures stands are included.

What are you waiting for? It's not like LEGO is making more any time soon. ; )

*See store terms for details

Nurse Kelly Loves a Good Game of Darts

Karf Oohlu is back with another Collectible Minifigure vignette. This time featuring "Nurse Kelly"...

"After twenty years of over-worked, under-paid, unappreciated service, nurse Kelly had become a little blasé in her attitude to work."

If you read through some of the comments on Flickr, you'll see that Nancy had another version of this game...with scalpels! Ouch.

(Via Karf Oohlu's Flickr stream)

The Life Aquatic with Clumsy Pete

The first time I had heard about these serialized vignettes by Bart De Dobbeaer titled The Life Aquatic with Clumsy Pete, was when Brickspace announced they had reached their 1ooth and final episode. Running for over five months now, the vignettes recounted the humorous adventures of Pete and and an intrepid group of undersea explorers. The 99th vignette didn't place Pete in the best of situations. Perhaps Bart will return someday to continue the story.

The vignette shown here is number 100 and features nearly all of the cast and crew. I would recommend popping a bag of corn, set Bart's Flickr stream to slide show, and be prepared to laugh. Here's hoping we'll hear back from Bart (and Pete) in the not to distant future.

(Via Brickspace)

LEGO Collectible Minifigure Series 2: The Ringmaster

The Ringleader is exclusive to set 8684, The Collectible Minifigure Series 2.

Minifigure Parts and Accessories
The Ringleader is composed of four main parts: hat, head, torso, and legs.

The hat is a standard black version of part 3878. I was surprised to learn via BrickLink that only 13 minifigures have worn this hat in the past.

The head print is similar to the Series 1 Magician, but this gent is a lot more excited by his profession.

The torso is red with red arms and white hands. The torso print gives the impression of a red coat with tails, a white vest, and large bow tie.

The legs are black with no print and white hips.

The accessory that comes with this figure is a white whip (part bb425). This part has only been available in reddish brown with two of the Prince of Persia sets.

You can see a picture of all parts and accessories here.

Army Building Potential
The ABP for the figure is low - even if this figure is desired for Circus MOCs, there's only one ringleader per circus.

Feeling It Out
This one's going to be tough. The top hat and whip might be difficult to feel out, but they are your best bet.

Bar Codes
The following are the secondary bar codes that can be found on the back of each bag which indicates the figure inside. The EU bar codes are shown on the left and the US bar codes are shown on the right. These bar codes come courtesy of Grogall. You can find a single pdf containing all bar codes here.

Official LEGO.com Bio
“Ladies, gentlemen and children of all ages, you will not believe your eyes!”


The Ringmaster loves being in the spotlight and running the show. He’s in charge of the entire circus, and he always makes sure to keep the tightropes tight, the sawdust fresh, the trapeze rings shiny and all the animals fed and happy.


To the Ringmaster, the best thing in the entire world is the sound of the audience cheering and clapping all around the big-top circus tent. That’s why he always does his very best to put on the most spectacular show possible – and to outdo the performance from the night before!

The Big Draw
The Ringleader is an obvious compliment to the Series 1 Clown. The biggest draw here, however, is likely to be the whip. Only available in two Prince of Persia sets, this style of whip is still relatively new. White seems an odd color (why not black?), but may still be of interest. Overall, this figure will mostly be sought to fill out a Series 2 collection.

(Back to LEGO Collectible Minifigure Guide)

(Pictures via Brandora.de and dita_svelte's Flickr stream)

BrickTW Product Reviews

In May 2010, we ran a series of product reviews for custom house BrickTW. This "guide" collects those reviews for easy reference. I hope that you walk away from this experience with a better sense of BrickTW's offerings and how they can enhance your custom minifigures or LEGO MOC's.

BrickTW is a custom house out of Taiwan specializing in Oriental weapons and armor. BrickTW strives not only to develop quality items but to develop products with ties to Asian history and culture.

You may have seen the brick comics by Tigerggyy on this blog in the past. Tigerggyy is one of the designers working with BrickTW, and many of his comics feature their products.

I hope you enjoy these reviews. I personally learned a lot and had a blast putting them together.

If you would like to check out BrickTW's product, feel free to visit their website or their BrickLink store today.

May 2010 BrickTW Week

• Weapons Review
• Armor Review
• Shields & Helmets Review
• Capes Review

2011 BrickTW Reviews

• BrickTW Body Gear Review

Akunthita's Jackson Five

Customizer Akunthita has built this mini vignette featuring the Jackson Five. They've utilized three different sizes of legs (short, regular, and Woody) to achieve the brother's varying heights. Add some painted Collectible Minifigure Clown 'fros, Amazing Armory guitars, BrickForge mics, and voila! You have a LEGO tribute to a Motown super group.

(Via Akunthita's Flickr stream)

That's Not A Moon. It's a...Golf Ball?!

Mike Stimpson (AKA Balakov) has started to sell three of his LEGO Star Wars images (including this one) as greeting cards on PigSpigot.com. If you haven't perused Mike's photos on Flickr your in for a real treat!

You can print a card for $3.99 USD or send an electronic version for free.

Mike also has prints available on RedBubble and diviantART.

(Via Mike Stimpson Photography Facebook Page)

LEGO Star Wars Imperial Shuttle Minfigs

By now you've likely seen the pictures from Gizmodo or Brickworld showing the new LEGO Star Wars set 10212, Imperial Shuttle, due out in September. The shuttle itself is quite drool worthy, but what about the five minifigs that come with it?

I think most of the production effort went into the set, sadly to say. Most of the figures are reissues of existing offerings.

Jedi Luke is largely the same fig that came with set 10188, Death Star. White pupils have been added to the face print, but that's it.

Darth Vader also appears to be the same as the figure that came with the Death Star set and 8017, Darth Vader's TIE Fighter. We don't have pics of this Vader sans helmet, but I wouldn't expect much new under the hood.

The Stormtrooper shown is a bit of a mystery. Most of the new Stormtroopers have the dotted mouth pattern printed on the helmet. The variant shown here does not and better resembles sw109a (minus pauldron) which came with set 7659, Imperial Landing Craft.

The Imperial Commander appears to be an updated version of sw114. The torso print of the uniform appears to be more basic. The head print has been updated, featuring a new, but basic, expression.

The Imperial Pilot is the most unique of the lot. He is most similar to sw208; however, the torso print varies in small ways. The facial print is new, but the cavalry cap (part 30135) has appeared in black previously.

Overall assessment? There's not too much to get excited about here. Some updates? Sure. This still doesn't place these figures in a more affordable range given the price point of 10212. If you are going to buy this set, do it for the shuttle, not for the figs.

(Picture via The Brothers Brick)

It May Not Be Christmas, But Don't Be a Jerk

Tonight is movie night at Brickworld Chicago. One of the films that will be featured is a new LEGO music video by Garret Barati. Barati was the grand prize winner of the 2008 "Built By Me Movie" contest sponsored by Nickelodeon and LEGO. The winning film? Check it out below.

Here's hoping there will be more brickfilms from tonight posted later in the week.

ForrestFire Films: Immensely Slow Bullets

Immensely slow? Perhaps they are so insanely fast they traveled to the future...and through space...to..my head hurts!

Killzone Custom Vest by Orrange

Amazing Armory collaborator Orrange has posted this new image of a Killzone 3 custom vest.

Hopefully this inspires you to enter the Killzone Custom Minifigure Contest.

(Via Orrange's Flickr stream)

The Deep Sea Diver Gets Wrapped Up In His Work

Earlier in the week I shared a few mini-vignettes put out by TLG for the Series 1 Collectible Minifigures.

Although not part of that original set, this vignette by Karf Oohlu could easily have fallen in with that collection.

(Via Karf Oohlu's Flickr stream)