A DIY Lego Play Table

Before tossing the Lego set boxes, cut out fun panels from the packaging and slip them into inexpensive frames, as shown on the wall.

A shoe-organizing bench is a good size and height for building and storing (we found this Prepac Shoe Storage Cubbie Bench for $129.99 on amazon.com). Use removable foam mounting squares to attach baseplates to the top. (The plates can be cut to any size with a sturdy pair of scissors.) To make it mobile, add casters (see next slide).

To add wheels to the workbench, as shown, turn it upside down and measure the length of the shorter side. From a 2- by 4-foot board, cut 2 pieces to that length. Lay the boards atop the bench, close to the ends. Drill 2 1/4-inch holes through each board and into the bottom of the bench. Attach the board using a 3-inch-long 1/4-inch carriage bolt, washer, and nut for each hole. Use a drill or screwdriver and 1-inch wood screws to attach 2-inch swivel casters (four total; ours were $4.47 each at Lowe's) to the ends of each board.

For toting bricks to a restaurant or friend's house, a hardware sorter works wonders (we got a Stanley Professional Organizer for $16.97 at Home Depot). Organize the pieces in the small bins and stash small baseplates underneath them.

Sort smaller pieces in magnetic spice containers, then stick them to magnet boards and strips secured to the bench with foam mounting tape.

Use hot glue to attach magnets to the backs of Lego figures. Or glue a magnet to a small brick that can serve as a storage stand for those precious figures.

What to do with all those assembly manuals after the work is done? For safekeeping, slip them into sheet protectors and file them in a three-ring binder.

For sorting larger building pieces, try cereal boxes. Simply cut them down to fit into your bench's storage shelves or cubbies, then, if you feel like spiffing them up, cover them in wrapping paper or kraft paper.

Originally published in the September 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.