Anchor Stone Constructions

6_15

2011-02-08T12:37:00.016-05:00

This tower was constructed using set #6.

I create new designs at night after I put the kids to bed. It's my time to relax. In the morning, I'll often find a new creation decorated with dolls and toys. I laugh at those silly Brownies sneaking about the night. If only I could get those little crumb gobblers to clean their room...

Enjoy!

6_14

2011-02-07T15:02:00.006-05:00

This small house was constructed using set #6.

It makes a nice accomplishment when finished. It has a clear path from front to back. One can peer through the upper window down through the front door. This model not only resembles a house on the outside, it has a spacious living area inside.

A splendid home for a fairy or gnome.

Enjoy!

6_10

2011-01-27T16:25:00.006-05:00

This small castle was constructed using set #6.

One can imagine a guard on the lookout keeping a watchful eye on the road below and all those who pass beneath the gate.

Like it's larger sibling, it makes a nice view from all sides.

Enjoy!

6_11

2011-01-23T10:06:00.004-05:00

Cold winter nights bring thoughts of warm cozy places. My daughter had her own thoughts. Here's what she had to say:

This building reminds me of a log cabin. It brings back good memories about going camping during summer. I remember when I would wake up and get dressed and hurry downstairs. The car rides aways took so long. As soon as we got there I would get all excited. I used to go swimming all the time. Then we would go out for dinner. Once we went to IHOP. Sometimes we got to play on a playground. We went on alot of hikes too. When mom said we had to go to sleep I would stay up and read. Sometimes I would bring my Beanie Babies. I loved all the things you can do when you are camping. Sometimes we would go on long hikes. My sister had to be carried. Once we got back to our cabin we would usally ride our bikes. I used to think my bike was a pony. Now I know it’s just a bike. I think camping is fun for other people too. You can go on hikes, you can pick blackberries, you can ride your bike. Camping can be so much fun.

- Emma Seppeler
(daughter of William Seppeler)

This small cottage was built from set #6.

We hope you enjoy!

12_3

2010-10-25T13:05:00.004-04:00

The fall season is my favorite time of year. A time to reflect on the labors of summer and prepare for the slumber of winter.

I've been working on this design for some time, but never built it until last night. It's a set 12 design, and it's surprisingly taller than it looks.

Note the construction used in the peak to achieve a larger roof from limited set of 262/265 stones.

The construction plans should be easy to follow.

Enjoy!

g28

2010-10-22T09:29:00.004-04:00

Back to the basics.

The wind it blows.

Leaves turn brown.

Chill is knocking once more.

It's time to build.

This house is small.

Two windows, but no door.

Packing Plan for set 12

2010-03-30T14:18:00.002-04:00

As an alternative to the packing plans that accompany each Anchor Stone set, I present the packing plan I use. Note that one of the boxes has an empty space the size of a #1 block. The stones are not labeled, but one should be able to determine placement by observation. The key to this packing plan is that all like stones (in size and color) are packed next to each other and in the same orientation.

12_2 (castle)

2010-03-12T23:49:00.004-05:00

This is a tale of two towers, and the bridge that connects them. The design requires set 12 to build.

Note the trickery in the roof tiles(262/265) of the red tower. Lots of detail was used throughout the construction giving it a nice view from all angles. This model should provide a nice challenge to the aspiring Ankerstein builder.

The plans for this construction may be difficult to follow. Consider it a challenge. If the plans are missing any detail, please let me know.

8_3 (tower)

2010-01-21T11:51:00.011-05:00

Constructing with Anchor Stones is a hobby which can inspire the imagination of a child. This castle tower was built using set 8 and lots of creativity. The construction can be tricky. But when complete, it makes a solid and stable fortification. All this design needs is a dragon and a captive princess.

It's very satisfying when a design is complete. Some designs I work on for a long long time. I'll build something and like what I see, but often, there's something about a design I just don't like. It could be as trivial as uncoordinated block colors, or cracks in a wall. I'll sit and think, and change, and think, and change again and again. Sometimes I'll feel a design will never be complete.

Then it happens. A new adjustment is made and all the blocks seem to fall into place. Very much like a puzzle. It's as if the design was meant to be. It's a nice feeling.

I've been stuck on a new design for a few weeks now. It's an awesome start (at least I think so). Two towers. The one is all red with three peaks and odd angles. The other all yellow, tall and ornate. There's a bridge to connect the two and a pile of bricks to finish the job. But there it sits like an unfinished ruin. Someday, yes someday...

As a diversion, I scaled back my plans to work with a smaller set of stones. As a result, I've been able to complete this set 8 design. The feeling of accomplishment has been sweet. I hope you enjoy this latest creation. It's my attempt to design something majestic on a smaller scale. But perception is relative. Which is why my theme for this model is about imagination.

New Poll

2010-01-15T12:15:00.005-05:00

The polling stats in the sidebar have been cleared. I started this poll last year and let it run for about a month. I was pleased so many viewers took the time to answer the poll. I'm starting the poll again. This time I'm letting the poll run for 10 years.

If you've filled out this poll before, please take the time to do it again. You may change your vote at any time. I'm using the poll data to track block sets owned by viewers of this blog.

8_2 (school)

2010-01-12T10:47:00.005-05:00

This school house was constructed using set 8. Note the placement of stones and how they overlap.

Careful placement can compensate for irregularities in stone size. Thus creating a more stable structure. George Hardy mentioned this in his monthly e-zine this month.

In this model, I payed special attention to stone placement. I didn't want any cracks in the structure. The end result is not only a stable construction, but a model with visual appeal.

10_2 (church)

2009-11-17T14:06:00.007-05:00

Here's a redesign of the 10_1 model. It's built using set #10. The structure is similar, but there's been some improvements.

The lower roof is more consistent and less cluttered. The upper roof is different too. The lower windows make use of pillars (nice effect), and the ridiculously large rear circular window now has a more appropriately scaled replacement. This church is not as tall, but it's slightly larger inside.

The downside is this church is more plain in appearance. My recommendation is to build both and decide which is preferred. One more thing: This church uses all the blocks in the set! A very nice accomplishment for a set #10 design.

enjoy!

12_1

2009-11-03T10:22:00.004-05:00

After a long break, a new model has emerged. Last spring a new box of Ankerstones was purchased from George Hardy. Which brings my collection to set #12. And with that, I present my first set #12 model.

This model was started with the ambitious goal of using all the stones in the box. Alas, I failed in the task, but I'm quite happy with the result. When finished, there were four stones left. Four tiny stones. They could have been packed within the structure. Used to fill a hollow cavity, or embellished the outside just a little more. However, there comes a time when a construction is complete. And about that goal of using all the stones? Well, that can be a challenge for another day.

Because this is a larger model, a modular construction technique similar to that seen in the 8_5 design was used. The tower was created first. It's a building by itself. The roof of the main building was done next. An arcade was created to support the roof. Then a facade was wrapped around the structure. The front being separate from the rest. All these pieces were created symmetric in design. Keeping things symmetric made the design phase easier.

Here are the plans for this construction. The images are rather small, but hopefully large enough to see. Use caution when constructing the tower. The stones are small and must be placed correctly. Also, the roof in the peak is hollow. Blocks were used sparingly to make the construction as large as possible. The model stands about 20" tall.

This is a fine construction that will take some time, and a steady hand. Four blocks in set #12 are unused. What are they?

8_4 (church)

2009-05-06T09:05:00.007-04:00

Does this model look familiar? It's a redesign of the last model found in book #6.

It's really a set #8 design. Richter books often entice readers with a final model that can be built when the next block set is purchased. It's that teasing which prompted me to create my own designs.

I hope you enjoy building these models as much as I like creating them. I only wish I had more time to play.

In other news, I see the factory is producing new Ankerstein sets. The new Märchenkasten set appears to be marketed towards young children. Well, I suppose all Ankerstein building sets are geared towards children. Some of us just happen to be a little older. I've only seen an image of what these new sets look like. Anyone care to comment?

My first impression was that the block assortment is a bit odd. The block sets also include a few wooden pieces, but I have no idea what these wooden bricks(?) look like. The set includes what appears to be a nursery book of fables. Very cute!

This got me to thinking. If I was to design my own block set given a limited box size, what block assortment would I choose? For added challenge, make the box size be that of a set #4. I've not compiled a complete assortment, but I would have a mix of #1, #3, #4, #5 followed by #15, #17, #19, and #31. I would round out the selection with #110 and #112/113 arches and sufficient #208 and #210 roof tiles. Although I do not use pillars much, I would include four #181 pillars.

My assortment sounds similar to what you get in set #4 and the Heinzelmännchen set, but in those sets, you don't get any #3 or #17 blocks. I always felt that was a missing element in those sets. From what I can see, that issue has been addressed with the Märchenkasten. I not only look at Anchor Stones as building blocks. I like them for their Mathematical properties. One of the things my kids like to do with the blocks is pack them in various ways. Many of their structures consist of building a larger cube from blocks availible. I always found this an interesting project for them. Building cubes from #3 and #17 blocks posed no challenge for them, which made me wonder why these blocks (I call them thirds) were left out of the children's sets.

Another idea would be to creae a large mini set (ala Kleine Gernegross). The block assortment would closely follow that of set #8 but using the smaller scale of a KG set. One could probably get close to the assortment of set #16 in mini scale to fit within a single set #4 box size. Due to the number of blocks, the set might cost upward four times that of a set #4. However assortment wise, you would have something close to eight times the size of set #4. Smaller caliber blocks are harder to build with due to their size, but they're nice in that they take up far less space. It'd be interesting as a special limited edition.

8_5 (fortress)

2009-04-09T22:51:00.004-04:00

Here's a fortress constructed using set #8. OK, maybe not a fortress, but it's a fine structure with a view.

The inspiration for this building comes from the plan booklet that accompanies set #12. There are several fine structures found in that book.

The interesting thing about this construction is that it's modular in design.

The structure consists of three symmetric buildings combined to form one asymmetric design. The buildings could be combined in a variety of ways. This is just one possibility. If you don't like the door at the base of the tower, rotate that building a quarter turn towards the passageway.

Here's the plans. Enjoy!

8_1 (barn)

2009-03-12T13:23:00.009-04:00

As a child, I had chores to do. Every day after school, I'd put my muck boots on, grab my runner sled and hike to the barn. It was a short trek across the yard and through the woods. I'd cross a small chasm balancing on a one foot wide plank spanning an eight foot wide stream of swiftly flowing water. Believe it or not, I never fell in. Not once!

As I walked along, I'd see the summer garden to the right. It was a large field of dried vegetables and rotting fruit. Spring was coming, and that would be work for another day. Turning to the left, I'd maneuver beneath the electric barbed wire fence and climb a large, a very large hill on which our barn was perched.

There was an old stone well at the top of the hill, from which we'd gather water to quench the horses. There was no pump on the well. Water was retrieved by straddling the well with a bucket and a string. One would take aim dropping the bucket such that it would hit the water with a deep thud, thus producing a full load. Water was drawn by hand. It was a tiresome job. Sometimes the string would break. At which point, I'd climb down into the well, ten feet or so, and use my foot to fish the bucket out. The challenge was climbing out using only two hands and one foot, while hoisting the bucket with the other foot. It was more difficult in winter when the rocks on the the inside of the well were covered in ice. Again, I never fell in. Nor would I want to, the water was fridgid cold. Even in summer!

After feeding the horses and mucking the stalls, I would begin my journey home. The sled ride down the hill was fast and furious. On a good day, I could make it all the way to the stream. Life was hard, but I look back with fond memories now.

This model is a tribute to my growing up on the farm. I hope you enjoy.

Creating this model was a two step process. The barn was created first and the silo was added second. Here's a few images showing the process. The barn could be built as a stand alone construction, however there's not enough 208B/210B roof tiles to cover the complete structure. That was the motivation behind the silo.

There was no silo attached to our barn, but having one sure makes the construction look more like a barn.

Here's the building plans.

10_1 (church)

2009-03-07T22:28:00.010-05:00

Today is my birthday. As gift, I present this church made from a set #10. It resembles the 6_8 model, but larger. Note the detail in the roof trim. Constructing this model can be tricky, so be sure to pay attention to the construction plans.

One interesting thing about this model is the placement of rafters to support the roof. A single 22R stone supports the whole roof. I could have used more rafters, but I liked the openness of using less stones to accomplish the job. Structurally, it's very sound. The church cavity is hollow right up to the roof. Even the bell tower has a hollow cavity that leads straight down into the church.

A set #10 might (still) be considered a small collection to most hobbyists, but it's large enough to construct some pretty nice models. The inspiration for this model came from the photos seen on George Hardy's e-zine this month. Thank you George for providing the fuel to inspire builders like myself. In turn, I hope the designs I create can inspire others.

Here are the building plans. The isometric perspective makes it hard to see the correct size stones being used. Look for the 29R stones in the roof trim layer as well as the 29G stones being used near the crosses at the front of the church. This design doesn't use any 21R stones (there's two of them), so feel free to use one as a spacer in the doorway while the model is being built.

New poll

2009-02-26T09:16:00.005-05:00

A new poll has been added to the side bar. Select all check boxes that apply to your Anchor Stone collection. I'm curious to know what the average viewer has in regards to their Anchor Stone collection.

You'll note that I limited the box selection to #14a and below. If you have higher numbered extention boxes, select all that apply plus other. If you have a unique collection, feel free to elaborate in the comments section. As always, I strongly encourage viewers to leave comments.

If you're a regular visitor of this blog, please take the time to submit your vote.

6_8 (revised)

2009-02-24T15:58:00.000-05:00

I made some modifications to the 6_8 model. The #316 blocks were removed, the tower is a little taller, and both roof tops are now trimmed in yellow. It's undecided which version of this model looks better.

Feel free to express your opinion.

6_9

2009-02-19T23:27:00.000-05:00

This small building was constructed with set #6. Note the placement of the #212 roof tiles. Two corner roof tiles are placed together to form a roof valley. It's a technique normally used on larger constructions.

Have fun with this construction. It's a small building with big ideas.

6_8 (church)

2009-02-16T23:44:00.001-05:00

Here's another church constructed from set #6. There's no cross on the structure, but one can use their imagination.

It an old design that's been reworked. The inspiration came from one of the churches in UE046.pdf

With left over blocks, a small cross monument can be erected.

6_7 (St. Valentine's Day)

2009-02-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

It's St. Valentine's Day tomorrow! Who's ready? If not, have no fear. I may be able to help. Get your Anchor Stones out and get to work.

This little design was created using set #6. Most of the model can be built by inspection. The only hidden stones are at the base of the heart, and those are two #210R blocks.

Enjoy, and don't forget the chocholate and flowers...

6_6 (church)

2009-02-13T01:19:00.000-05:00

If you liked the last church, you may enjoy this one too. The design is very similar, and it's just as much fun to build.

Be careful when laying the trim level of the roof. The blocks need to be placed just right, or they won't support the large #5G stones. This roof technique is the same one used in both church designs. When done correctly, it creates a very stable roof. I can honestly say this design will withstand mild assaults from children.

This structure was built using a #6 block set.

6_5 (church)

2009-02-11T11:56:00.002-05:00

Many moons ago, I made several churches for set #6. Some of them were published by Burkard Shultz. He does such great work producing official looking plans. Today I decided to give one of those churches a makeover.

I borrowed ideas from several designs as well as the Dorfkirche St. Virgil by Peter Wierer (I like the back of his church).

This is a design for set #6.

6_4 (lighthouse)

2009-01-29T23:09:00.000-05:00

I was browsing through some old set #6 designs and came across this lighthouse.

I changed the design a little. The image on the right is what the initial design looked like. I suppose both towers make a fine build. In fact, this lighthouse was the inspiration for it's smaller cousin.

Below are the building plans.

And the build in progress.

h28

2009-01-21T00:05:00.000-05:00

Is it a church or a school? Having a good imagination is a wonderful thing. This simple construction was built with a Heinzelmannchen set.

Martin K. Seppeler memorial

2009-01-19T09:50:00.001-05:00

Today I make a dedication to my brother Martin K. Seppeler.

Martin passed away on January 8th, 2009. He was a true brother, a best friend, a loving husband, a caring father, and a faithful son. He presents will be missed by many.

I have choosen this model as a dedication and virtual memorial to my brother.

NOTE: The image is an annimated GIF of model g19.

6_3

2008-12-09T01:13:00.001-05:00

Here's a tower design for set #6. Although the structure looks as though it might fall down, it's remarkably stable. My initial design for this tower was much taller, but I find this version more pleasing.

There's a slight flaw in the hints. In the last two steps, the image didn't render correctly. I'll have to correct this at another time.

Here's the build in progress:

6_2 (plans)

2008-12-04T10:56:00.000-05:00

This is the 6_2 model, but from a different angle. In my haste, I didn't post any plans for this construction.

So here they are:

I have mixed feelings on the new style I'm using for drawing hints.

I like the conventional layer plans used in the Anchor Stone books, but it's easier for me to create hints showing the construction in progress.

For now, I'm taking the easy approach. I hope the hard core Anchor builders don't mind...

6_1 (new)

2008-12-04T09:47:00.001-05:00

The initial 6_1 model was a simple construction. I decided to make it simplier.

I sometimes over embellish models with extra blocks. I'm trying to break this habbit. I think it's better to share the basic plan, then let the builder add their own style to it.

I also thought I'd experiment with new design plans (I've been calling them hints).

These plans differ in style to common Anchor Stone plans. Instead of showing cross sections of each layer, I'm showing the construction as it's being built. Hopefully the visual will make it easier.

6_2

2008-12-04T01:06:00.001-05:00

This construction turned out rather nice. It was built using set #6. Note the overlapping blocks in the tower section. One must imagine there's a spiral staircase that winds up inside the structure. At least that's what I was thinking when I made it.

This design was initially meant to be a church, but it can be made into a tower by simply removing the lower section to the left of the door.

enjoy!

6_1

2008-11-20T23:55:00.000-05:00

It's been a long time since I've built anything using set #6. This small house was constructed from that set.

I'll need to rework the hints at some point and create some real design plans.

h27

2008-10-22T23:09:00.001-04:00

Here's a construction that breaks my usual trend. This design, like the last one, was inspired by my 3yr old son. He loves trains. This construction was made with a Heinzelmannchen set.

h26

2008-10-21T23:18:00.001-04:00

It's been a long time since my last construction. So here's one to get me going again. This model was built using a Heinzelmannchen set. It uses a little more than half the box, and it's simplistic by design.

I've recently had some good block play with my 3yr son, and I found several of my designs to be too complicated for him. I built this with his skill set in mind.

g27

2008-07-25T10:18:00.001-04:00

This Gernegross design may look slightly familiar.

I've been known to repeat myself every now and then, and other times I just repeat myself. Every once and a while, I create something new. This isn't one of those times.

Still, I like this design for it's simplicity. It's a variation of the Gernegross g5 design. Similar, yet very different.

g26

2008-07-25T10:10:00.001-04:00

One can never build enough towers. This Gernegross tower design has a balcony off the side.

2008-07-24T09:32:00.000-04:00

Some designs never make it to this blog. They get created, then destroyed. I generally share (what I feel) are my best work.

In a previous post, I shared a design which I felt was not one of my better works. To my surprise, an avid reader expressed his appreciation of the design calling it one of my best. I'm deeply honored by his comments (thank you Alan).

As a follow-up, I'm posting a design which I did not intend to add to this blog. I created this model last night, then dismantled it. After reading Alan's comments, I decided to recreate the model from memory. Here it is Alan. A tribute and brain teaser for You to work on.

NOTE: The 210 + (2)69 + 31 arrangement replaces the 210 block on top of the 98 arch. I was not able to draw this arrangement in place due to limitations of AnkerCAD.

BTW: This is a set #4 design.

4_6

2008-07-23T08:18:00.001-04:00

This set #4 creation has an interesting door. It could be the entrance to a palace, or it could be the home of a person with a large head.

Here's an alternative block arrangement that emphasizes the doorway a little more.

4_5

2008-07-22T09:17:00.001-04:00

This arch was created using set #4. It's a variation of several arches available in the book (that accompanies the set).

Given more blocks, a builder could someday turn this design into a small castle.

4_4

2008-07-18T08:22:00.000-04:00

Book #4 contains several nice images of shrines, arches and fountains which can be constructed using a set #4. Here's another shrine which can be constructed.

NOTE: The backside image (at the bottom right), shows slight clipping. It appears as if the #15 block is floating. This is a defect in the way AnkerCAD draws some blocks. Sometimes I can rotate the model slightly to remove the clipping. Other times I can't. Call it magic.

4_3

2008-07-16T13:33:00.000-04:00

This model was constructed using set #4. The Heinzelmannchen set and set #4 are packaged in the same size box. What differs is the selection of blocks you get. Set #4 has a nice selection of roof tiles as well as a large arch. Both of which add variety to constructions which can be created.

4_1

2008-07-15T08:50:00.001-04:00

This bridge was constructed from set #4. Does it look familiar?

4_2

2008-07-14T09:40:00.000-04:00

Set #4 includes a book of several nice designs. Those designs were the inspiration for this construction.

Updated 7/15: I built this design from memory and I forgot a few blocks. This revision uses all the blocks in the box.

Heinzelmannchen PDF

2008-07-09T16:37:00.001-04:00

For those with a Heinzelmannchen set, I created a one page (US letter) PDF of all the Heinzelmannchen designs. You can download the PDF file here, or you can select the PNG image if you prefer.

NOTE: After clicking the PDF link, select option #2 to download the file. You do not need to create an account. The file size is about 2.25Mb in size.

Gernegross PDF

2008-07-09T15:34:00.000-04:00

Every once and a while, I create a one page (US letter) PDF of all the Gernegross designs. For anyone interested, you can download the PDF here. Or, you can select the PNG image, if you prefer.

NOTE: The PDF link above will take you to a free file hosting web site. When you get there, select option #2 to download the file. You do not need to create an account. The file is about 2Mb in size.

As always, comments are appreciated.

g8

2008-07-09T08:04:00.001-04:00

Here's a Gernegross church design. This church was initially constructed with a Heinzelmannchen set as seen here.

Same church with a different block arrangement.

g25

2008-07-08T07:21:00.001-04:00

Here's a church design for the Gernegross set. 2D designs are not as interesting as 3D models, but they're a great place to start for new builders. No design plans needed.

NOTE: This design has been corrected from it's initial posting.

Updated (7/10): Sometimes I just can't leave a design alone. Here's the same church using all the blocks in the box...make that two alternative designs. Vote for your favorite today!

g24

2008-06-20T08:35:00.001-04:00

This building was constructed with a Gernegross set. The Gernegross set is one of the smallest (is it the smallest?) Anchor Stone block sets. Not only in size, but also in the number of blocks contained in the set. There are only 38 blocks in a Gernegross set.

It's been mentioned that a Gernegross model can be constructed with a Heinzelmannchen set with a few substitutions in block color. It's also possible to construct any Gernegross model with a #6 starter set. One only needs to substitute two #4R blocks for two #4G blocks.

Hints:

g23

2008-06-04T23:11:00.001-04:00

Here's another tower design for the Gernegross set. There's no door into the structure. Maybe it's a prison. Be careful when constructing the roof. It's easier to construct the roof on a flat surface, then lift it all at once to place it on the tower.

Here's a GIF animation of the build in progress.

g12

2008-05-31T14:11:00.001-04:00

This tower was built with the Gernegross set. The original tower under the same title had an error. Here's the corrected version.

g22

2008-04-21T22:46:00.001-04:00

This arch design was constructed from a Gernegross set. If you like this arch design, you may be interested in this one as well.

Heinzelmannchen packing plan

2008-04-21T09:03:00.000-04:00

Putting Anchor Stones into their storage box can be a puzzle. Thankfully, all sets come with a packing plan on the inside lid of each box. Here's an alternative packing plan for the Heinzelmannchen set.

Gernegross packing plan

2008-04-21T08:34:00.001-04:00

Putting blocks away can be entertaining. The Gernegross set comes with a packing plan on the inside lid of the box. Here's an alternative packing plan one can use.

g10

2008-04-08T10:42:00.001-04:00

This building was built with a Gernegross set. If built with a Heinzelmannchen set, it would look like this. Note the slight change in block colors. An image of this construction can be seen here.

Hints:

g6

2008-04-08T10:39:00.002-04:00

Here's a Gernegross monument. To build this monument with the Heinzelmannchen set, look here.

Hints:

g13

2008-04-08T10:38:00.001-04:00

A Gernegross design.

g16

2008-04-08T10:36:00.000-04:00

A Gernegross design.

g18

2008-04-08T10:33:00.000-04:00

Here's a Gernegross design which uses all the blocks in the box.

g4

2008-04-07T08:11:00.001-04:00

Here's a Gernegross design resembling a clock tower or government building. A variation of this structure built with the Heinzelmannchen set looks like this.

g2

2008-04-07T08:07:00.000-04:00

A Gernegross design. A similar design built with the Heinzelmannchen set is here.

g1

2008-04-07T07:59:00.001-04:00

This monument was made with a Gernegross set. The same monument built with a Heinzelmannchen set can be found here.

g21

2008-04-07T07:32:00.000-04:00

Here's an arch design built with the Gernegross set.

h23

2008-04-01T08:51:00.000-04:00

Here's a Heinzelmannchen design built without any #21 blocks.

Hints:

NOTE: The Hints are reversed from the image. Meaning the hints show how this structure is built with the tower on the right.

h20

2008-04-01T08:35:00.001-04:00

Here's a Heinzelmannchen monument.

Hints:

h19

2008-04-01T08:34:00.001-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design.

h16

2008-03-27T11:02:00.001-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design.

Hints:

h15

2008-03-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design.

Hints:

h12

2008-03-27T09:30:00.001-04:00

Constructing a building with the Heinzelmannchen set is difficult due to the lack of roof tiles. Therefore one must rely on imagination. This Heinzelmannchen design doesn't use any #21R blocks, so this structure can be built with a Gernegross set.

Hints:

h14

2008-03-26T13:54:00.001-04:00

This Heinzelmannchen design is my attempt at an apartment building.

h10

2008-03-26T13:51:00.001-04:00

Here's a Heinzelmannchen design resembling some kind of temple.

h9

2008-03-26T13:46:00.001-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design. A similar design built with the Gernegross set is seen here.

h7

2008-03-26T13:42:00.000-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design.

h6

2008-03-26T13:33:00.001-04:00

A Heinzelmannchen design.

g20

2008-03-22T13:14:00.000-04:00

Here's a simple Gernegross design.

g19

2008-03-20T13:04:00.000-04:00

Here's a monument made with the Gernegross set. It's construction looks similar to this lighthouse, but there's some minor differences.

Hints:

A larger version of this monument built with the Heinzelmannchen set is seen here.

Hints on navigating this blog

2008-03-19T15:01:00.000-04:00

To ease the usage of this blog, I've been labeling each model based on the set it was created with. All Labels are listed in the margin. If you only want to see Heinzelmannchen designs, then select that Label in the margin and only messages containing Heinzelmannchen designs will be displayed.

g7

2008-03-19T08:05:00.000-04:00

This bridge was built with the Gernegross set. An almost identical version of this bridge is seen here.

This model may not need hints, but I created them anyway. I'm practicing on how to make level diagrams. What do you think?

Hints:

g11

2008-03-18T08:29:00.000-04:00

Here's a lighthouse constructed with the Gernegross set. This model can be built with the Heinzelmannchen set using design h13. An image of this construction can be seen here.

Hints:

g3

2008-03-14T15:20:00.000-04:00

This Gernegross house design was the basis for the h17 Heinzelmannchen house design. It's one of my favorite Gernegross designs. I like the simplicity.

g14

2008-03-14T15:08:00.001-04:00

Here's an example of a Gernegross design based on the h2 Heinzelmannchen design.

h18

2008-03-14T14:59:00.000-04:00

This school building design started out as a port of the Gernegross g5 design. As you can see, a few extra #21R blocks in the Heinzelmannchen set can make a difference.

h22

2008-03-14T14:53:00.001-04:00

This church design is similar to the h5 church design. I was experimenting with other ways to make a cross symbol. It's an interesting embossed effect.

h5

2008-03-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

Here's a church design (use your imagination) built with the Heinzelmannchen set.

Where are the #4 designs?

2008-03-14T10:52:00.000-04:00

Here's a nice image of set #4 from the manufacturer's home page. If you have set #6, you can build all the set #4 models. This holds true for all the Anchor sets. A higher number set can build all the models of the lower numbered sets. This is nice. So why don't I have any #4 models?

The simple answer is I haven't gotten around to it. I was sent a Heinzelmannchen sample set a while back, so I was encouraged to build Heinzelmannchen models. I'm very grateful for the gift...thank you, thank you, thank you! The same with the Gernegross models. I was sent a Gernegross sample set (bonus gift!). I didn't think there was interest in Gernegross models, but I made them anyway.

Most folks start their Anchor Stone collection at set #6 under the impression that nothing useful could be made from a set #4. Based on my experience with the Heinzelmannchen set, I do not think this is true. In hind sight, I wish I started my collection with a #4 + #4a combination. Jumping into a set #6 was more cost effective, but having the extra storage boxes would have been nice for alternative packing plans. I think there's much more potential to set #4 than what book #4 reveals. Someday, I hope to make some #4 models. I've not had requests to make any, so the sense of necessity isn't there. However, if a set #4 was to show up on my door step, I would surely make it a top priority.

g5

2008-03-14T08:03:00.001-04:00

Here's a Gernegross construction. I don't think many people own a Kleine Gernegross set. One has to look hard for a retailer that sells it. I've noticed the manufacturer's web site doesn't list it as one of their current products. For anyone who might own one of these sets, I hope you enjoy these extra designs.

h25

2008-03-14T07:37:00.001-04:00

Here's a Heinzelmannchen structure that resembles some sort of building. Building house structures with the Heinzelmannchen is difficult due to the limited number of blocks. In particular, there's never enough roof tiles. In general, the Heinzelmannchen and Gernegross sets are better suited for building arch structures or silhouettes. This is an example showing another possibility.

Here's a view of the back side and some hints.

Hints:

Where are the #6, #8, and #10 designs?

2008-03-13T09:44:00.001-04:00

I do have several #6 designs and a couple of #8 designs to share, but I've not created building plans for them yet. Unlike the Gernegross and Heinzelmannchen designs, the #6 and beyond require layer plans. It's a continual work in progress. I have shared several of these designs with members of the CVA. Some of them have been published in the form of a PDF document. Many are possibly waiting to be published. In the interim, I started this blog as a means to share the designs with everyone.

I have one sheet PDF documents of the Gernegross and Heinzelmannchen designs. If anyone is interested, leave a comment and I'll see about getting the documents hosted.

The model above was constructed from set #8.

h1

2008-03-13T09:15:00.001-04:00

Here's a cross monument. It could also be used as a pedestal for a figurine such as a diecast soldier. I probably should leave a few hints as to how this model is built.

Hints:

g15

2008-03-13T09:05:00.001-04:00

Here's another Gernegross design. Although you can not directly see how all the blocks are placed, the arrangement can be deduced given the limited number of blocks in this set. I have not produced formal design plans (or hints) as to how the Gernegross and Heinzelmannchen models are built. I leave it as a brain teaser to the viewer.

g17

2008-03-13T08:54:00.000-04:00

Here's a Kliene Gernegross design. Gernegross and Heinzelmannchen designs look very similar. The difference is in the block colors and usage of #21 stones. I generally port designs between the two sets. Sometimes I create the design with a Gernegross set, then make it compatible with the Heinzelmannchen set, and sometimes I go the other way.

Where are the photos?

2008-03-13T08:26:00.000-04:00

Photos of Anchor Stone construction look much better than the CAD images, so why do I use CAD images?

To be honest, it's easier for me to create a CAD image of these models than to take a photo. The purpose of this blog is to share the designs with others, and I felt the CAD images do a better job at presentation. As you browse these images, know that the actual construction look's better (at least I think so).

So why do I think CAD images are easier?

All these images are created using a free CAD program called AnkerCAD. It's a great little program. If you care to download it and give it a try, I highly recommend getting it from Burkhard Shultz's web site. He created all the block definitions used in this program and his website contains the latest version. The site is in German, but you can grab English instructions.

h11

2008-03-12T15:30:00.001-04:00

And yet another Heinzelmannchen set design.

Yes, there's a common theme going on here. If you Google Anchor Stones or Anchor Blocks, you're bound to find several fascinating images of Anchor Stone constructions. What many don't realize is that some of those constructions are built using several thousand stones. I'd like to show the possibilities using only a few stones. The Heinzelmannchen set is only 42 stones total. That's not much by any block set standard. Normally, one would start collecting Anchor Stones starting with set #6. The initial cost being over $100. The Heinzelmannchen set, however, is a great gift idea when cost is a factor.

h2

2008-03-12T15:23:00.001-04:00

Sometimes a construction doesn't resemble a common structure at all. However, they're still fun to create. Here's a monument creation using the Heinzelmannchen set.

h24

2008-03-12T15:10:00.001-04:00

Churches and monuments are a common theme with Anchor Stone constructions. Several of my models contain a religious element as well. This is not an expression of my faith or religious belief. I present them as an example of construction possibilities.

h8

2008-03-12T15:01:00.001-04:00

Castles are my favorite Anchor Stone constructions, however one needs many blocks to create a substantial structure. This small castle tower was built using the Heinzelmannchen set.

h13

2008-03-12T14:54:00.000-04:00

Building towers is one of the more satisfying constructions to make. Every now and then, you make one that actually looks like something. Here's a tower made with the Heinzelmannchen set. I think it looks like a lighthouse.

Hints:

h4/g9

2008-03-12T14:48:00.001-04:00

This well is a simple construction. Anchor Stones are often used to make great and complex structures. However, simple constructions can be appreciated as well (bad pun).

h3

2008-03-12T14:44:00.000-04:00

This bridge was constructed with the Heinzelmannchen set. There were no #21R stones used in it's construction.

h17

2008-03-12T14:40:00.001-04:00

Here's a simple house constructed using the Heinzelmannchen set.

Kleine Gernegross/Heinzelmannchen

2008-03-11T11:00:00.000-04:00

In addition to set #10, I've also played with a Kleine Gernegross set and a Heinzelmannchen set. These sets are not expansion sets, meaning they're not used as part of a sequence to build a larger set. However, the blocks are compatible.

The Kliene Gernegross set is a miniature version of the Heinzelmannchen set. Other than scale, the only difference between these two sets is some blocks vary in color. The Heinzelmannchen set also contains four extra #21 stones. These stones were added so the Heinzelmannchen set could be packaged using the wooden box of a set #4. Although these two sets are small, in that they do not contain many blocks, I greatly enjoy their simplicity.

Unlike other Anchor Stone sets, these two sets do not come packaged with an instruction book. They do include a small sample sheet of models that could be created, however only a handful of idea's are given. To show the merit of these simple (and most affordable) sets, I've come up with several constructions that can be built.

I hope you enjoy them.