There has been an Awakening in the Star Wars building scene. John (J.R. Snotly Builds), an AFOL from Utah, just started sharing their LEGO creations a few weeks ago, and already they’re a force to be reckoned with. The builder’s style is based on embracing minifig scale while preserving maximum detail. That means Star Wars vehicles that are decidedly smaller than most official sets, but look perfectly proportioned next to a minifig.  This Snowspeeder is barely 12 studs long and can still seat 2!

By working at this scale, John makes ships that we’ve seen in LEGO hundreds of times feel fresh again, using surprising parts and connections to solve familiar build challenges in new ways. Take, for example, the engine cones on this N-1 Starfigher made from Castle helmets!

Purists might note that the windscreen used on the A-Wing and N-1 isn’t a LEGO part, as the builder found that the WANGE windscreen was better for keeping a minifig pilot enclosed at this scale. John also has a version with a LEGO alternative.

What an exciting debut, and perfectly timed for Star Wars Day.