Invariably when I’m presenting my work at shows I will be asked some version of “How many mini figures do you have?”
The short answer is...
The short answer is I have no idea, but it’s a lot. In my defense, I’ve been collecting Lego mini figures since 2011.
The collectible minifigure (known as CMF’s) were first introduced in 2010. Although I didn’t discover them until 2011 when I purchased my first figures: The Kimono Girl (series #4) and Samurai Warrior (Series #3). I consider myself fortunate that I started collecting early and have been able to (mostly) complete the entire series. I’ve lost 2-3 individual mini figures over the years. But honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me if I have the parts somewhere in the chaos of my studio.
Organizing the chaos
Speaking of chaos…trying to keep all my mini figures in order has been a never ending struggle. In the early days I used flat plastic craft bins with dividers for each series. But when I reached somewhere between 10 and 12, I realized I needed something bigger.
My need to expand my storage and organization came about the same time that Radio Shack was liquidating their stores. My ex husband bought many of the multi drawer part bins that were found at the back of every store. I inherited four of these and have been putting them to good use. I fear the inevitable day when I run out of space!
Many of the mini figures come with accessories. These are stored with them. But I also have a large collection of accessories and parts picked up at conventions and the LEGO store.
What to do with the accessories?
The world of LEGO has a never ending supply of accessories, cute animals and fun tiles that are wonderful for expanding photo ideas. At some point my collection of accessories became so unruly that I could never find anything. Or if I did, my search often took hours or more. Now Ive collected my extra faces, hair, animals, food, capes, etc. cin part bins used for nuts and bolts.
Organizing my accessories was a game changer. Now I can quickly find the parts I need. Plus in the organization I found fun parts I didn’t even know I had!
There are no perfect solutions to organizing a LEGO collection. I’m always on the look out for clever solutions.
Beyond the CMF
While the CMF’s anchor my collection, there are so many figures from long retired lines (I miss you Chima!), licensed franchises (TMNT, Scooby Doo, etc) and their Ideas line of sets. I’m always on the lookout for unusual figures to add to my collection.
Besides official LEGO figures I also collect unusual characters from third party creators such as Citizen Brick, Crazy Bricks, Minifigs.Me and MiniBigs to name a few. I’m continuously on the hunt for new and fun figures that will inspire my photography or just bring me joy.
I love having this random collection of figures and accessories at my fingertips. It allows me to quickly turn an idea into a finished photo.
Why so many figures?
In addition to the mini figures, my collection also includes animals in a wide range of sizes, all types of boats and mini builds. The vehicles in my collection come in all shapes and sizes and are waiting patiently for their time in front of the camera.
While I will never be able to definitely say how many minifigures I own, I think it’s safe to say it’s a lot! But is it too many? With each passing month some new figure is released by either LEGO or one of the many third party designers I collect. While I try to pace myself, I can’t help but think…what photo will I take with this one? I’m sure for some people, it’s a silly use of money. But for me, it’s a small price for such a big return.
“Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.”
— A.A. Milne
2 Responses
I spotted Beth the Gymnast on your work table 🙂
I really enjoyed reading this post Shelly. I have asked myself the same question (“How many LEGO Minifigures is Enough?”) many times over the last couple years as my collection is getting out of control. But then LEGO releases some cute CMFs or BAM minifigs and there I am getting more. Minifigs are a great item to cheer us up in this crazy world but I do think I’m starting to have too many.
Lynn – she’s out getting ready to be bagged and stored. She’s too precious to leave out to yellow!
I’m glad you enjoyed reading my musings. I too cant resist a new series or the random set with awesome figures! (Star Trek Im looking at you!) Ever since I did the big mega sort – Ive been happier with my collecting. I think the mess was getting me down more than the figures. Because these little guys still make me happy. I hope you can find the perfect balance between enough and too many that suits your needs. Cheers and happy collecting!!