About
Hello, I’m Cole, the Brick Replicas guy!
My Mission:
1) To craft LEGO models so realistic, they redefine your perception of what’s possible with plastic bricks.
2) To guide you in creating your own masterpieces through step-by-step building instructions, teaching, articles, and more.
Press and Community Recognition
Distinction
– A pioneer of visuals-first weapon building in the LEGO fan community
– Currently the longest-active builder in the real-world-referenced 1:1 guns subgenre of LEGO military builds.
Selected Awards / Achievements
– Winner, 2007 LEGO Club Holiday Contest
– Double appearance in March–April ’08 issue of LEGO BrickMaster Magazine
– LEGO ReBricker of the Week, Nov. 2013
– Best 3D Art, Bricks Cascade ’15
– Best 2D Art, Bricks Cascade ’16
– Approached for 3D Modeling in End Credits, The LEGO Movie 2 (July ’18)
– Most Interactive, Bricks Cascade ’19
– Most Realistic, BrickUniverse Nashville ’23
– TNVLC Convention Award (BU Nashville)
Blogged by / Featured in
– LEGO Magazine & BrickMaster
– Beyond the Brick
– The Brothers Brick
– BrickNerd
– BrickVault
– BrickPop
– Gizmodo
– LEGO ReBrick
– The Brick Collectors
– LEGO Brand Retail Store, OR
– Beautiful LEGO: Wild!
– Brick Warriors
– Everyday Bricks
– Blockheads
– Music City Bricks, TN
– GCA Journal
– Multiple news outlets in OR, TN, MO
– Blocks Magazine
What Drives Me
I’ve been pushing the boundaries of LEGO construction for over 25 years. Inspired by the LEGO System’s philosophy of “only the best is good enough,” I’ve been committed to pursuing quality and innovation since receiving my first LEGO kit as a child.
As a teenager, I delved deep into advanced building techniques. I joined the broader LEGO community and my efforts were recognized, garnering awards and impactful feedback that influenced not just my LEGO designs but also my overall artistic perspective.
The Journey of Brick Replicas
In the mid-2000s, I chose to focus on aesthetic-driven replicas. ‘Brick Replicas’ was conceived to prioritize lifelike accuracy within the bounds of LEGO bricks. While some shows found my creations controversial, I never wavered in my commitment to realism and quality.
Today, Brick Replicas offers an expansive portfolio that goes beyond weapons to vehicles, objects, and more. The best part? Seeing the awe and wonder on the faces of families as they interact with my designs at exhibitions.
I’m not just a builder; I’m a mentor and a trailblazer, committed to inspiring the next generation of LEGO fan builders. My designs are more than mere models; they’re experiences—realistic enough to make you think outside the box.
Testimonials from Fellow Builders
“Cole is the kind of guy to really make you love the LEGO community. He is welcoming and thoughtful and at the same time a masterful builder. He is personable and loves to share his creations with the next generation, sparking creativity and imagination. With a passion for history and a firm grasp of the LEGO system, Cole is a unique and inspiring friend that I would hate for others to miss out on. A must-follow.”
“Cole is nothing short of a Founding Father for LEGO prop builds. His creations from nearly 10 years ago still hold up to this day and resonate with a large community of weapon builders who follow in his footsteps, myself included. And now he’s back and better than ever, inspiring the next generation of replica LEGO builders with incredibly complex designs and renewed engagement with the very community he helped to forge.”
Commissions
Serious inquiries only—provide timeline, budget, and details.
I occasionally provide special commissioned LEGO building projects and custom Brick Replicas if the following elements are provided:
Time: I work full-time, and my LEGO building time is already limited, so any special projects must have an ample timeline and/or extra budget allotted.
Budget: All Brick Replicas are meticulously referenced and designed, often taking 20–30+ hours each (with instructions as an extra process, and don’t forget the actual parts’ cost too), which often requires hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on size.
Details: Crafting a high-quality replica is all about the photos, measurements, diagrams, and source materials that go into the process—the more, the merrier!
Interesting Topic(s): All special projects are considered and selected in alignment with my personal priorities, areas of speciality, and/or creative goals. A good fit is crucial; message me, and I’ll look forward to discussing a potential collaboration with you!
An example commission: Biofire Smart Gun
Approximate project cost in 2023: $2,000 USD
(Included model design, instructions, decal, physical display.)
Classes, Teaching
Helping build the next generation of LEGO builders
Does your group need a class or keynote presentation for your next event?
Talks and Topics: Get ready for an in-depth overview on any and all things relating to plastic building bricks. I’ve given full presentations, interviews, and even workplace devotionals inspired by the history of the LEGO Company, its founders, and products and/or how to design your very own realistic creations with advanced building techniques.
If you’re looking for nerdy creator storytelling and opinions based on a lifelong experience in the hobby, be sure to reach out!
Teaching and Tutoring: Whether you’ve got kids at your local library, private church group, Awana club, homeschool co-op, or you’re looking to push your skills further in LEGO building at the intersection of art, design, creative strategy, and STEM—I provide a variety of hands-on classes and targeted exercises to build upon your goals.
Travel: I’m based in SW Missouri and can travel around the Four States and beyond, provided enough time and budget.
Teaching kids about custom LEGO replica design at a homeschool co-op (2026)