I'm curious. Is there a way to successfully "edit" a lego

[BrickG]

I'm talking like... with sandpaper or something you take away from existing say, hair, and (probably) treat it with something to make it look good.

I know some people use putty and stuff but that is too imperfect for my tastes. And I doubt I can actually make custom molds (I can't imagine how expensive that would be :P). 3d Printing doesn't seem to be up to par yet either. So... can people like... reshape elements without just ruining them to crap? Is it possible (without being ridiculously expensive)?

My guess is "nope". :)

Edited August 4, 2013 by BrickG

[NiL_FisK_Urd]

http://www.eurobricks.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=80574&hl=acetone

[LuxorV]

You could start by looking at the MCW Index, which is rich of interesting tutorials, like this one on Sculpey, for example.

[BrickG]

So the answer is "no"? :P

Hand sculpted things don't float my boat. They look imperfect. Sculpey is out. Couldn't find anything about trimming/sanding/cutting lego parts in there so I assume it would be a bad idea.

[CustomJoe_MD]

Its NOT, just use a rotary tool and go slow with the sanding discs of the right size, instead of finishing up with acetone from the drugstore use nail polish remover for a milder action (it's usually a weaker acetone solution) it will take time but it re-shines the plastic where you cut ...eventually.

Also indirect heat can be used for finishing abs parts, use a teflon sheet between the heat source (NO OPEN FLAMES use some kind of resistance, maybe a soldering gun -turn on till it reaches max temp, let cool of just enought and then apply) and the part.

You can look at how body and interior workers rejuventate abs dashboards (see youtube) -- its a common thing in car repair and touch up work. Except usually heat blow guns/hot air guns are used and thats way to hot and wide nozzle for this kind of stuff,

I use wax + neoprene and teflon sheets with my supper dupper sandwich maker for finishing parts, its really involved but works, also good for making toast.

Check in a few days for a couple of topics by me, i'll try and see if I can get pics up too.

And don't be afraid to mess up (unless its a really rare or expensive part ) try stuff, search new ways, go forth and learn. :)

[CustomJoe_MD]

I'm putting this separate because its a different thing, this is how the big boys do it.

It's a procedure similar to what I use but using super glue and shavings to get a fill instead of soldering with heat, or polishing buffing.

It's just better if you see it for yourselves, very well explained (better than I could) + you can download and print a figure at home if you want.

http://www.thingiver...om/thing:116571

Credit to Jason Welsh, now and always.

Hope it helps

Edited August 5, 2013 by CustomJoe_MD