How to start a LEGO magazine collection

How to Start a LEGO Magazine Collection

Collecting LEGO magazines is a hobby that blends creativity, storytelling, and the thrill of exclusivity. Each issue is filled with comics, puzzles, and most importantly, foil packs that often include unique mini-figures or small builds. For many fans, starting a collection is both fun and rewarding, offering a way to explore the LEGO universe beyond sets and bricks. If you’re thinking about building your own collection, here’s a complete guide to help you begin.

Why Collect LEGO Magazines?

Magazines add a unique dimension to LEGO fandom. They feature original stories tied to popular themes like Star Wars, Ninjago, Friends, and City. Alongside the entertainment, they come with collectible extras that you won’t always find in regular sets. These foil packs are a major draw and often become valuable items for collectors.

Collecting magazines also helps preserve the history of LEGO themes. Looking back through older issues gives you a glimpse into how characters and sets have evolved, turning your collection into a timeline of creativity.

Step 1: Decide Your Focus

Before you begin, decide what direction you’d like to take. Some collectors focus exclusively on one theme, such as Star Wars, while others prefer a mix of multiple lines. You may also choose to collect every issue released in a given year. Having a clear focus will guide your purchases and keep your collection organized.

Step 2: Subscribe for New Releases

Subscriptions are the most reliable way to make sure you don’t miss an issue. With a subscription, each magazine arrives directly at your door, complete with its foil pack. This takes the stress out of hunting for copies at local shops.

If you want to begin building your collection with ease, you can explore monthly LEGO Magazine subscription boxes here. This ensures you receive consistent issues, including EU exclusives, which are often difficult to find in the U.S.

Step 3: Hunt for Back Issues

Starting a collection often means catching up on older issues. Back issues can be tricky to find, especially if they include popular or rare foil packs. Online marketplaces, collector forums, and curated selections are great places to look. Patience is key, as some issues may take time to track down.

For those who want to grow their collection more quickly, curated subscription services that include past editions can help fill the gaps.

Step 4: Organize Your Magazines

An organized system is essential as your collection grows.

Storage Methods

• Binders with protective sleeves: Great for easy browsing.
• Archival boxes: Ideal for long-term storage and protecting condition.
• Shelving: Works well if you like your collection visible and accessible.

Cataloging

Create a log of your collection, either digitally or in a notebook. Note down issue numbers, release dates, themes, and whether the foil pack is sealed or opened. A catalog will help you stay on top of what you own and what you’re still searching for.

Step 5: Preserve Foil Packs

Foil packs are the highlight of LEGO magazines and deserve special care. Decide whether to keep them sealed or open them for building. Sealed packs hold their collectible value, while opened packs let you enjoy the builds.

For sealed packs, use plastic sleeves or small storage boxes to prevent wear. For opened builds, mini-figure display stands or small organizers are excellent ways to keep them safe and visible.

Step 6: Connect with the Community

Joining LEGO fan groups online or in person can expand your collection opportunities. Communities often share news about upcoming issues, trade duplicates, and offer tips on storage and preservation. These connections also make collecting more enjoyable, as you get to share your passion with others.

Step 7: Make It Your Own

The most important part of starting a LEGO magazine collection is making it personal. Collect what excites you—whether that’s every issue of LEGO Star Wars or just the ones with your favorite characters. Some people collect for nostalgia, others for the foil packs, and some simply enjoy the stories.

Families can make it a shared project by reading the comics together, solving puzzles, and building the extras as a team. This turns the collection into a meaningful experience rather than just a hobby.

Where to Expand Your Collection

Consistency is key for building a collection. If you want a straightforward way to keep growing, explore monthly LEGO subscription boxes here. These curated deliveries make it easy to expand without worrying about missing exclusive sets or rare foil packs.

Final Thoughts

Starting a LEGO magazine collection combines entertainment, creativity, and collectibility in one package. By setting a focus, subscribing to new issues, hunting for back editions, and organizing your finds, you’ll build a collection that reflects both your interests and the history of LEGO itself.

Whether you keep everything sealed for future value or open each pack for the joy of building, the process is just as rewarding as the result. With patience and passion, your LEGO magazine collection will quickly become one of the most enjoyable parts of your LEGO journey.