Get started with brick MOCs
From a rough idea to files you can share or sell: free tools, a bit of habit, nothing fancy.
1
What is a MOC?
A MOC (“My Own Creation”) is an original model you designed yourself, not a retail boxed set. On OpenStuds we usually say bricks to mean the whole compatible building world, not one manufacturer. New to the word? Read What Are MOCs? first, then hop back here for software and workflow.
2
Download BrickLink Studio (free)
Most people model in software before they buy bricks. BrickLink Studio is free, and it’s what a lot of the community uses for designing, part counts, instructions, and XML lists. Grab it here: BrickLink Studio download . The download page lists current Windows and macOS requirements.
3
Why design on the computer first
Studio is fast to experiment in, you see part counts and colors early, and you get the file types shops ask for (instructions plus BrickLink-style XML). Same files later help when you take photos or renders for a listing.
4
Practical tips for your first builds
- Keep the first model small so you’re not drowning in parts while you learn.
- Use Studio’s library and color picker instead of guessing odd part colors.
- Pick up a little structure vocabulary (studs-out, SNOT, simple bracing) so the real build holds up.
- Think early about how you’ll show the model in photos or renders. Our upload best practices page has ideas.
5
“Should I post this? Is it good enough?”
That voice in your head is common. Easy to compare your first upload to someone’s fiftieth. On OpenStuds, listing doesn’t cost you anything. No listing fee, so you’re not paying just to be seen. You’re not making a big financial bet to go live. The hard part is usually hitting publish; you can improve photos, copy, and files as you go. Over time your shop tells a story: how your builds, photos, and ideas change. People notice when someone keeps at it. Growing where others can see it isn’t embarrassing; a lot of builders respect exactly that.
Next step
Ready for XML and instructions? Export XML & instructions has the basics.