Do you have any useful advice about creating a successful LEGO Ideas project?

I plan a lot when doing any projects, but all of it is driven by a passion to get the best results I can.



My thoughts on this constantly evolve. Let me know in the comments what additional things you think help a project.



The steps in order I take are:

• Gathering reference and brainstorming on what features would add interest and fun to the design.

• Building rough models in real LEGO bricks or software like LDD to get the basic shapes, proportions and features. Be realistic in size and scope, so you don't over promise in terms of what would likely be possible.

• Determining the key aspects of the set that drive demand and interest. Give those models the most attention in your project.

• Refine the build and at some point build in real LEGO bricks to ensure it works and is fun to build. Also don't be too gentle with your model as this will inform you where it needs to be more robust.

• Maintain a good frequency and placement of detail, too high and it will look noisy, too low and it will look basic and lack detail. Too concentrated in one area and the model won't look balanced or cohesive.

• Avoid large areas of repetitive color by introducing other colors, but not in a garish way unless the subject matter calls for it.

• Finally go over your model to see if any improvements can be made then create interesting compositions that showcase the different views and features of the design.

• Regardless of if it's a render or photos create in focus well lit images. Avoid clutter and distracting backgrounds to create easily readable images that "pop" and make it clear what the set is about

• Create your new Ideas project. Upload images, and a video to showcase any play features and links to any other content. Write a brief description and break up the text to make it more interesting. Check your project thoroughly as once you submit you cannot edit only update.

• Do updates to showcase any design improvements, supporter milestones met, and links to where your design has been shown.

• Read the feedback in the comments, if several people say the same thing maybe they have a point. And engage/ respond to comments, it keeps interest up and It's the nice thing to do!



Promotion

Good design and visuals will only get you so far, you need to make people aware your design exists. Ask yourself what drives interest in your project and who would be interested your design, and then target your promotion efforts there.



1. Share project images and links on various image hosting sites such as groups on Flicker, and various social media groups relevant to your model. Try to make it clear in your promotion efforts text and visuals that this is a proposal for a LEGO set. and that they have the power to help make it happen by voting.



2. Go to conventions have fun, be inspired, and in addition your design may be noticed by LEGO fan YouTube channels, some of which have huge followings. A social media post or a youtube interview by them where you show and discuss your model could give your project a big boost! such as this Beyond the Brick interview I did for The Flintstones.



