Behind the Scenes: How We Make Our LEGO Advent Calendars

9 hours ago

2 min read

Ever wondered what goes into creating a custom handmade LEGO advent calendar?

Unlike standard off-the-shelf supermarket boxes that are factory-sealed on an assembly line, every single calendar at Build Up To Christmas is picked, hand-sorted, and packed individually by hand.

Here is an insider peek behind the scenes at how we bring your December daily build up to life!

Step 1: Dividing Each Set Into 24 Daily Builds & ADAPTING THE INSTRUCTIONS

It all starts here! As our first step, we spend a lot of time working out how to divide a single set into 24 daily builds. It's not as easy as it sounds! We then design the instructions for each individual day using LEGO's original instructions and adapting them to remove images of the final toy—so we can keep what it is a surprise for as long as possible.

Step 2: Hand-Sorting 24 Days of Pieces

Before a single calendar is packed, every set goes through a meticulous sorting phase. We break down genuine LEGO sets and carefully measure out the exact bricks needed for each individual day into 24 numbered tubs (Days 1 through 24).

At the same time, we review and edit custom step-by-step instructions on-screen to ensure that every daily build flows smoothly and logically from Day 1 right through to Christmas Eve.

Step 3: Custom Instructions & Daily Bagging

Once sorted, every day’s pieces are sealed into clear numbered bags paired with custom daily instructions. Laid out together, you get 24 complete mini-steps that build cumulatively into a fantastic completed set by Christmas Eve!

Step 3: Beautiful Festive Packaging

If selected - each daily packet is tucked inside our reusable, numbered pillow pouches (1 to 24). Designed to hang beautifully alongside your holiday decorations, they turn every morning in December into a magical gift unboxing.

Step 4: Personal Touches & Off to Delivery!

Finally, we prepare everything for dispatch. Every calendar includes a personalised hand-written gift note addressed to the builder—plus any special message you'd like to add from yourself—making opening the delivery box extra magical.

Because each Calendar is made and packed entirely by hand by just the two of us, numbers are strictly limited. Once a set sells out, we won't be able to restock before December 1st!