How to make lego display case
LEGO collections deserve more than being stacked on shelves or left to gather dust. Whether it’s a single set, multiple minifigures, or a grand build, protecting and presenting your collection is essential. That’s why creating a LEGO model display case has become increasingly popular among collectors.
This blog provides a step-by-step DIY guide to building your own LEGO display case UK fans will love. You’ll learn how to design, cut, and assemble a display that matches your space and style.
By making your own case, you can customise everything from size to lighting. Whether you want a large LEGO display case for Technic builds or a wall mounted LEGO display case to save space, this project will let you showcase your collection with pride.
2. Materials and Tools Required
Start by gathering the essential materials. Use acrylic or Perspex sheets for clear, scratch-resistant panels—perfect for a professional-looking LEGO model display case. If you want extra sturdiness, add wood or MDF boards for bases or framing.
LEGO baseplates are vital to hold your builds securely. For adhesives, use acrylic cement or super glue for acrylic and wood glue and screws for wooden parts.
You’ll also need cutting tools such as an acrylic cutter or scoring tool and a saw for wood. Add a measuring tape, pencil, drill, and sandpaper to your kit. Hinges or magnets make doors easy to use, while rubber seals or weather stripping help dustproof the case.
To upgrade your display, consider LED lighting. Finally, a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner will keep your panels crystal-clear. These materials will help you build a case that can rival a ready-made LEGO display case Smyths might sell, but at a fraction of the cost.
3. Step 1: Design and Planning
Begin by deciding on the type of case you want. A tabletop version is ideal for smaller builds, while a wall mounted LEGO display case saves space and looks stunning in a living room or office. For those with big collections, a large LEGO display case works best.
Next, measure your LEGO sets or minifigures, leaving extra space for accessories and movement. Sketch your design, noting where panels, doors, and lighting will go. This planning ensures your DIY case will be just as practical as a store-bought LEGO display case Smyths option, but tailored to your needs.
4. Step 2: Cutting the Materials
Cut your acrylic sheets to size for the front, back, sides, top, and base. If you’re adding wood or MDF for framing, cut those panels too.
Trim LEGO baseplates so they fit perfectly into the base. This will keep your models secure inside the LEGO model display case. Precision here is crucial—clean cuts and accurate measurements give your project a professional finish.
5. Step 3: Assemble the Base and Frame
Attach the LEGO baseplates to the base panel with glue or screws. Once the base is ready, fix the side and back panels. Use acrylic cement for acrylic builds, or wood glue and screws if you’re combining wood with acrylic.
For larger cases, add corner brackets for reinforcement. This step is especially important if you’re building a large LEGO display case that needs to support heavier builds. Proper assembly guarantees your case will last as long as the best LEGO display case UK suppliers can provide.
6. Step 4: Fix the Front Panel or Door
Now it’s time to attach the front panel. You can choose a fixed piece, a removable lid, or a hinged door. Hinges give you easy access, while magnets create a sleek finish.
Ensure the panel aligns tightly and use rubber trims or weather stripping to prevent dust from entering. This kind of precision makes your DIY build feel like a professional LEGO display case Smyths option, but custom-fitted for your collection.
7. Step 5: Finish the Case
Sand all the edges and corners until smooth. Clean the panels with a microfiber cloth to remove dust or marks.
Apply weather stripping around the door or lid edges to make your LEGO model display case fully dustproof. With these finishing touches, your display will look sleek and high-quality.
8. Step 6: Optional – Add Lighting
Installing LED lighting inside the case adds incredible visual appeal. Fix the strips near the top or sides to highlight your builds. Conceal the wiring for a professional look.
Lighting can turn even a modest wall mounted LEGO display case into a gallery-worthy feature. If you’re displaying large builds, LED strips make your large LEGO display case feel like a centrepiece in the room.
9. Step 7: Display Your LEGO Collection
With your case built, it’s time to showcase your collection. Arrange your LEGO models or minifigures on the baseplates, adjusting them until you’re satisfied.
Test the door or lid to make sure it functions smoothly. Once positioned, your DIY case will rival any LEGO display case UK collectors can buy off the shelf, but with the bonus of personalisation.
10. Tips for Success
Choose branded cast acrylic or Perspex for the clearest panels and long-term durability. Always measure twice and cut once to avoid errors.
If you find acrylic cutting difficult, many UK suppliers offer professional services. Cleaning should always be done with a microfiber cloth to prevent scratches.
If your collection is expanding, consider a modular design. Multiple sections allow you to create a larger LEGO model display case or combine units into a massive large LEGO display case that grows with your hobby.
11. Recommended UK Suppliers and Resources
For materials, Sheet Plastics UK and Hampshire Plastics are excellent sources of acrylic and cutting services. For wood, adhesives, and tools, try B&Q or Wickes.
For inspiration, BrickZoneHub offers guides and ideas for collectors. Visual learners can search YouTube for “DIY LEGO display case” tutorials, while written instructions are available on Instructables.
These resources help UK collectors build cases that can outperform a store-bought LEGO display case Smyths product.
12. Summary
Building your own LEGO display case is a fun and rewarding project. With careful planning, accurate cutting, and quality materials, you can create a case that protects your models while showing them off beautifully.
Whether it’s a compact tabletop version, a wall mounted LEGO display case, or a large LEGO display case for a growing collection, the result will be a display that fits perfectly into your space.
By using trusted UK suppliers and adding personal touches like lighting, you’ll have a LEGO model display case that rivals anything on the market, while giving your collection the attention it deserves.
For collectors who prefer ready-made solutions, check out BrickZoneHub.co.uk. They provide premium LEGO display frames and cases in the UK, combining durability, elegance, and functionality for enthusiasts who want professional results without the DIY effort.