How to Make a LEGO Display Case (UK Guide)
Learning how to make a LEGO display case is one of the most rewarding DIY projects for LEGO fans. A good LEGO display case protects your models from dust, keeps them safe from accidental knocks, and elevates your build into a gallery-style centrepiece. Unlike placing sets on open shelves, a dedicated LEGO display case gives your collection a polished, professional look—similar to what you’d see in a museum or premium collector showcase.
Many collectors turn to brands like BrickZoneHub.co.uk, known for offering both ready-made and custom-sized display solutions. But if you enjoy hands-on projects or want a perfectly fitted design, a DIY LEGO display case gives you full control over dimensions, materials, lighting, and style—often at a fraction of the cost of high-end commercial cases.
The real challenge lies in the fact that LEGO sets vary massively in size, shape, and height. A custom LEGO display case for a UCS Millennium Falcon doesn’t resemble a small box for a LEGO helmet or a brick-built botanical model. That’s why choosing the right build method—acrylic LEGO display case, connector-style case, or wooden LEGO display case—is crucial.
This guide breaks down everything you need to build a LEGO display case step by step, covering measurements, materials, assembly, dust protection, lighting, and pro finishing techniques.
1. Plan the Size & Style of Your LEGO Display Case
Every great LEGO display case begins with proper planning. Skipping this step is the number-one reason cases end up too tight, too flimsy, or too large for their intended space.
1.1 Measure Your LEGO Set Correctly
To understand how to make a LEGO display case, you must start with accurate measurements.
Measure your finished model:
Length (side to side)
Width (front to back)
Height (including tall or fragile elements)
Then add 2–5 cm of clearance on every side.
You must also account for protruding features:
Masts
Antennas
Fins
Turrets
Cockpit domes
Hinged or rotating sections
This space ensures:
✔ The custom LEGO display case won’t scrape delicate parts
✔ You can lift the cover off without hitting your model
✔ Airflow reduces dust and moisture buildup
Many UK builders use BrickZoneHub.co.uk’s measurement guides for reference when planning a DIY LEGO display case.
1.2 Choose Your Case Style
Your display style determines materials, difficulty, and final appearance.
A. Full Acrylic LEGO Display Case (Classic Shoebox Style)
This is the most popular style among collectors learning how to make a LEGO display case.
Features:
Clear acrylic on all sides + separate base
Best dust protection
Sleek, gallery-like appearance
Works beautifully for UCS, Icons, Star Wars, Technic, and Botanical sets
If you want the closest look to a professional premium case, an acrylic LEGO display case is ideal.
B. Modular Acrylic Case with Connectors
This method mimics flat-pack cases sold by LEGO display brands.
Benefits:
No gluing required
Easy to move or disassemble
Strong and lightweight
Perfect for beginners
It’s one of the most forgiving ways to build a LEGO display case without specialised tools.
C. Wood/MDF Shadow-Box LEGO Display Case
For a furniture-quality result, a wooden LEGO display case is the perfect choice.
Advantages:
Warm, decorative, cabinet-style look
Can hold multiple sets
Ideal for themed LEGO rooms
Easy to add risers and shelves
This is also the best option if you're displaying minifigures, modular buildings, or a mixed collection.
2. Option 1: Glue-Up Acrylic LEGO Display Case
This method creates a seamless, professional finish—the style used by many collectors and recommended for premium sets.
2.1 Materials & Tools
You will need:
5 clear acrylic panels
(Front, Back, Left, Right, Top)
1 base panel
(Black acrylic, MDF, mirrored acrylic, plywood)
Acrylic cement + syringe applicator
Clamps, blocks, masking tape
Soft cloth or cardboard surface
Microfibre cloth
Recommended acrylic thickness:
3 mm → small/medium models
4–5 mm → heavy sets (Falcon, Titanic, Technic Cars)
This ensures your DIY LEGO display case remains sturdy and crack-free.
2.2 Step-by-Step Build
Step 1 — Cut & Prepare Panels
Cut each acrylic panel to your required dimensions
Keep protective film on
Peel only narrow strips along edges you will glue
This prevents scratches—especially important for a clear acrylic LEGO display case.
Step 2 — Dry-Fit & Square the Corners
Place panels on a soft cloth.
Use:
Blocks
Clamps
A carpenter square
Ensure the panels form perfect 90° angles. A skewed frame will ruin the entire case.
Step 3 — Glue the Acrylic (Capillary Method)
This technique creates an almost invisible seam.
Steps:
Hold two acrylic panels together
Run a thin bead of acrylic cement along the inside joint
Allow capillary action to pull the glue along the seam
Let each joint cure before moving
Glue in this order:
Front → one side
Back → same side
Attach final side
Glue top panel last
Patience is essential when learning how to make a LEGO display case using acrylic cement.
Step 4 — Build & Finish the Base
Your base options include:
Painted MDF
Stained wood
Black acrylic
Mirrored acrylic
For a premium look, many collectors add:
LEGO baseplates
Tiled surfaces
Themed printed graphics
This is an easy way to personalise your custom LEGO display case.
Step 5 — Final Touches
Remove remaining protective film
Polish with a plastic-safe cleaner
Avoid ammonia-based products
Your seamless acrylic LEGO display case is complete.
3. Option 2: Modular Acrylic LEGO Display Case (Flat-Pack)
A fantastic method for beginners or renters.
3.1 Components Required
Pre-cut acrylic panels
Black acrylic base
Corner connectors
Screws
Screwdriver
Soft cloth
These systems resemble cases sold by BrickZoneHub.co.uk, making them a great entry point for anyone learning how to make a LEGO display case without glue.
3.2 Step-by-Step Assembly
Step 1 — Keep the Film On
Prevent scratches by leaving the protective film intact until the final stage.
Step 2 — Assemble the Frame
Connect side panels to the front and back
Ensure correct orientation
Add mid-span connectors for large, long cases
This method gives you the rigidity of an acrylic LEGO display case without the complexity of gluing.
Step 3 — Position the Base & Enclose the Model
Place base where the case will live
Position your model
Lower the assembled frame over it
Add the top panel
Step 4 — Remove Film & Polish
Once assembled, remove protective film and polish the surfaces.
Your modular DIY LEGO display case is ready to enjoy.
4. Option 3: Wood/MDF Shadow-Box LEGO Display Case
This method creates a warm, furniture-style appearance.
4.1 Build the Box
Materials:
MDF or plywood
Screws + wood glue
Sandpaper
Paint or wood stain
Steps:
Cut sides, top, base, and back
Assemble using glue + screws
Sand smooth
Paint or stain
A wooden LEGO display case is perfect for multi-set displays.
4.2 Fit the Acrylic or Glass Front
Choose between:
Hinged door with magnetic latch
Removable acrylic front using turn-buttons
Clip-in panel using internal trim
This offers easier access than a fixed acrylic LEGO display case.
4.3 Interior Layout
Enhance your display by adding:
Shelves
Acrylic risers
LEGO baseplates
LED strips
This turns the build into a full custom LEGO display case suitable for multiple models.
5. Design, Safety & Finishing Tips
5.1 Clearance & Strength
Always add 2–5 cm space
Use thicker acrylic for large builds
Reinforce long cases
This ensures your LEGO display case lasts years.
5.2 Preventing Damage During Construction
Keep protective film on
Never overtighten screws
Sand acrylic edges lightly
5.3 Dust & Fingerprints
Use microfibre cloth only
Avoid ammonia cleaners
Clean gently to avoid scratches
One key benefit of a custom LEGO display case is drastically reduced dusting.
5.4 Lighting Enhancements
Add:
LED strips
Diffused lighting
Backlighting
Route cables before sealing the case.
5.5 Placement & Safety
Cases can become heavy.
Place them where they will stay
Anchor wall-mounted versions into studs
Avoid high shelves for heavy models
Conclusion
You now know exactly how to make a LEGO display case—from measurements and materials to building techniques and finishing touches.
Whether you choose a:
Seamless acrylic LEGO display case
Easy-assembly modular case
Decorative wooden LEGO display case
…the core principles remain the same:
✔ Measure accurately
✔ Choose strong, reliable materials
✔ Add adequate clearance
✔ Protect your model from dust
✔ Enhance the display with lighting
A well-designed DIY LEGO display case transforms your set into a museum-worthy centrepiece that elevates your entire collection. And if you prefer a ready-made solution or want inspiration, BrickZoneHub.co.uk offers some of the best custom LEGO display case designs available in the UK.
With the right planning and technique, anyone can build a LEGO display case that looks stunning, lasts for years, and showcases your LEGO masterpiece at its absolute best.