How to Build a LEGO Paddlewheeler

Build the hull, or base, of the boat. How you choose to design this part of the vessel depends on how it will be displayed or used. A model boat that remains on a flat surface can simply be built up from an imaginary "waterline," whereas a LEGO boat intended for use in water will need a functional hull. A large LEGO ship's hull from a model set can be used, or builders can create one from LEGO blocks. If your boat is intended to float, build the hull to be waterproof and test it for leaks.

Build the paddle wheel assembly. Paddlewheelers can have a single large paddle wheel located at the stern (rear) of the hull, or can have two windmill-shaped paddle wheels located on either side of the hull.

If you are building a stern-wheel boat, create the paddle wheel by threading several large windmill-shaped LEGO pieces onto a LEGO Technic dowel that is the same width as the boat. Connect the windmill pieces equidistant from each other and the ends of the wheel by attaching long, thin LEGO pieces across the windmill blades. The final result should look similar to the blades of an antique lawnmower.

For a side-wheel boat, connect a windmill piece to either side of a single LEGO dowel that threads through the hull like an axle. If desired, two small axles can be created instead for independent wheel movement.

Build up the deck and any additional areas typical of paddlewheelers. If the steamwheeler's hull or base is large enough, you may add stairs and a second (or third) level to the boat. Add a gunwale (protective railing) around any open areas of the deck. Designers may choose to add additional rooms for seating, a galley and dining area, an engine room below the deck, a navigation bridge, or private quarters.

Add details to the boat to give it character. External detailing often includes a plaque or decal with the boat's name, life preservers, coiled rope, anchors, boarding planks, dinghies, or even lifeboats. The deck can be given additional handrails, spare buckets and barrels, and movable doors to allow boarding. Decorate the interior compartments as if the boat was a building; good additions include furniture, wall decorations, doors and windows, and any items typical to a paddle steamer.

Populate the boat with LEGO figurines to bring it to life. Figurines can show how the boat works and what each area is designed for. Characters can operate the engine room, steer and navigate the boat, and run the galley or any entertainment services. Other LEGO figurines can be used as passengers and placed in seats, walking about, or standing by the gunwale watching the water. Place your LEGO paddlewheeler on display, or float it in shallow water if free of leaks.