Brick-A-Pic: Turn an image into LEGO bricks on Kickstarter

This is a great idea! finally, an easily accessible way for everybody of every skill level to become more acclimated to LEGO mosaic. however, I have a small concern. Most mosaics that people pay attention to at conventions and online tend to be a bit more complex than simple studs-up designs, they might use SNOT techniques and 3d effects. But I'm still excited to see this pass, because if LEGO fans have this easy of a way to learn how to build mosaic, then maybe they'll be self-motivated to learn more about building mosaic themselves, and we'll start to see a proliferation of outstanding mosaic creations.

I suspect that the intended market for these isn't people who build Lego models to impress random people online or at conventions. For someone who probably isn't a Lego fanatic, but quite likes it and wants an unusual photo of their partner/children/parrot to hang in their hallway, this would be perfect.

It's a pity that shipping is US only. I get the feeling that's going to limit the project somewhat.

I understand that Kickstarter only allows you to add a single "non-us shipping cost" per reward level, and that things can start getting complicated quickly once you start adding them in, but it would have been nice to have something shipped to me. I've asked the question via the big FAQ button at the bottom of the page to the folks behind the project.

Great idea, but shipping within US only might actually kill the project. Why not have the backer pay for shipping?

Mixed on this - like the idea of being able to convert pics into bricks....but reckon they are going to have a hard time getting this working.

Essentially their income is going to come from markups on bricks which can be bought at the same place as we buy our bricks and selling plans. As was mentioned in another post...only shipping in the US may be a mistake. Whilst i would like to see it working and being successful i wouldn't put my money on it. I may of course be completely wrong :)

That's cool. I've known for years the trick to making a mosaic of a real picture: turn a photo into 48x48 pixels and translate those pixels into bricks on a 48x48 baseplate, but having a program that streamlines that is supercool. Does this come with a baseplate to build the mosaic on?

@MrPicnicBasket some of the sets come with a baseplate but not all of them.

No international shipping doesnt help, but i would use it as software to create some plans. Ive got plenty of ideas i would like to make, then it would be up to me to source the parts, but at least i would have a list to work off (great for topping up LEGO.com orders to get free shipping, just add a PAB order each time!).

The $25 pledge makes sense, 5 pics converted and plans provided, doesnt seem to limit the size of the image either.
Im concerned with the high starting figure they want to raise, its mostly going to be spent on stock but its not broad appeal and i dont think they will reach it.

I got a response from Jake on the kickstarter. Add $50 for shipping to the UK and they'll post out.

> I am sorry that we don't offer UK shipping. We would have liked to, but it would cost an additional $50 to ship and we didn't think that people would be willing to pay that much extra for international shipping. But, you can still get the "Plans Only" reward level where you supply your own bricks. This may be a good option for you.
>
> And if you really really want our kits and are willing to pay the $50 shipping charge, Im happy to oblige. Just add $50 to your contribution and I'll make it happen for you.