The Lego(r) Lighting Book

Light up your LEGO models to create eye-popping projects and dazzling special effects! This definitive collection of practical DIY LEGO brick lighting techniques includes over 120 full-color photos and hands-on projects for AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO).

Take your LEGO models to the next level by adding lights to your builds! Whether you want to illuminate official LEGO sets, develop your own realistically lit LEGO models, or design fantastical, glowing worlds, this book will show you how to make your creations stand out--even in the dark.

Clear instructions, inspiring examples, and vivid images illustrate how to achieve the best lighting for interior scenes, buildings, minifigs, vehicles, shadow sculptures, glowing artwork, and animated effects. You’ll learn how to:

• Create your own shadow art with carefully placed LEGO bricks and lights
  
• Build realistic lamps, streetlights, and other common light fixtures, using LEGO elements to control the flow of light
  
• Make custom-light handheld accessories like laser swords and torches by drilling and wiring minifigs
  
• Simulate rocket engines, gunfire, and more with real-time lighting effects
  
• Choose between a range of lighting solutions, from official LEGO lighting elements, specialized third-party products, off-the-shelf options like under-cabinet and Christmas lights, and DIY circuits
  

Each chapter features a beautifully photographed gallery of inspiring examples, and an exclusive project with step-by-step building instructions so you can experiment with different lighting techniques. Beyond just installing lights functionally, you’ll discover how to creatively sculpt with lightings and bricks.

Brian Williams is an accomplished brick artist and active member of the LEGO(R) fan community for 25+ years. His detailed military, adventure, and science-fiction themed LEGO(R) creations often feature advanced LED lighting and earned him 5 Brickworld awards including two World of Lights awards. He has written articles for Brickjournal and Railbricks, and contributed to The Art of LEGO(R) Design (No Starch, 2014). When he’s not building with bricks with his son, he works as a software development manager and exhibits at model railroad shows in the Chicago area.