The Brickspace - Twin Soo Bricks

11/11/2024

11/11/2024

At 7:00 PM The Anderson is struck by two huge waves that put water on the ship, 35 feet above the water line. The waves hit with enough force to push the starboard lifeboat down, damaging the bottom.

At 7:10 PM Anderson contacts Fitzgerald. The Fitzgerald is still being followed by Arthur M. Anderson. They are about 10 miles behind the Fitzgerald.

Anderson: "Fitzgerald, this is the Anderson. Have you checked down?"

Fitzgerald: "Yes we have."

Anderson: "Fitzgerald, we are about 10 miles behind you, and gaining about 1 1/2 miles per hour. Fitzgerald, there is a target 19 miles ahead of us. So the target would be 9 miles on ahead of you."

Fitzgerald: "Well, am I going to clear?"

Anderson: "Yes. He is going to pass to the west of you."

Fitzgerald: "Well, fine."

Anderson: "By the way, Fitzgerald, how are you making out with your problem?"

Fitzgerald: "We are holding our own."

Anderson: "Okay, fine. I'll be talking to you later."

They never spoke later. The 29 men onboard the Fitzgerald will never again speak with anyone outside the ship.

The Edmund Fitzgerald now sits in 530 feet (160 m) of water. The Edmund Fitzgerald lies about 15 miles (13 nmi 24 km) west of Deadman's Cove, Ontario about 8 miles (7.0 nmi 13 km) northwest of Pancake Bay Provincial Park and 17 miles (15 nmi 27 km) from the entrance to Whitefish Bay to the southeast.

As we conclude our commemoration of the Edmund Fitzgerald sinking anniversary, we’re proud to highlight the manual for our custom building block set. Authored by Christy Youtzy, the manual provides comprehensive, step-by-step instructions and features a thoughtfully curated memorial to the ship’s crew. We continually update this tribute with new photos and memories shared by loved ones, ensuring their legacy is honoured.

Rest In Peace to the 29 crew who lost their lives that night and let's all pray and hope that disasters like this no longer happen.



Image Credits: nobrakes1975 & Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here:

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

10/11/2024

At about 4:30 PM, The Fitzgerald could not pick up the Whitefish Point radio beacon. The Fitzgerald radios the Coast Guard station at Grand Marais on Channel 16, the emergency channel.

At 5:00 PM The Edmund Fitzgerald calls for any vessel in the Whitefish Point area regarding information about the beacon and light at Whitefish Point. They receive an answer from the saltwater vessel Avafors that the beacon and the light are not operating.

Estimated between 5:30 and 6:00 PM, Radio transmission between the Avafors and the Fitzgerald.

Avafors: "Fitzgerald, this is the Avafors. I have the Whitefish light now but still am receiving no beacon. Over."

Fitzgerald: "I'm very glad to hear it."

Avafors: "The wind is really howling down here. What are the conditions where you are?"

Fitzgerald: (Undiscernable shouts heard by the Avafors.) "DON'T LET NOBODY ON DECK!"

Avafors: "What's that, Fitzgerald? Unclear. Over."

Fitzgerald: "I have a bad list, lost both radars. And am taking heavy seas over the deck. One of the worst seas I've ever been in."

Avafors: "If I'm correct, you have two radars."

Fitzgerald: "They're both gone."

A look at the custom UV printed tiles included with our S.S Edmund Fitzgerald building block set. The tiles are provided by our printing partner millionprints.com



Image Credit: Doris Sampson

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here:

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

10/11/2024

At 3:15 PM Captain Jesse Cooper of the S.S. Arthur M. Anderson watches the Fitzgerald round Caribou Island and comments that the Fitzgerald is much closer to Six Fathom Shoal than he would want to be. The Anderson reports at 3:20 PM that winds were coming in from the Northwest at 43 knots.

At 4:10 PM The Fitzgerald radios the Arthur M. Anderson requesting radar assistance for the remainder of the voyage.

Fitzgerald: "Anderson, this is the Fitzgerald. I have lost both radars. Can you provide me with radar plots till we reach Whitefish Bay?"

Anderson: "Charlie on that, Fitzgerald. We'll keep you advised of position."

Here is a look at how Tim Henderson designed and built our S.S Edmund Fitzgerald building block set digitally in the Bricklink Studio software. The base of the model was designed by The Brickspace GM Derek Pearce.



Image Credit: David Ceaklin

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here:

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

10/11/2024

Day of sinking, 1:00am. Weather report from the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. The vessel is currently positioned approximately 20 miles south of Isle Royale. Wind speeds are recorded at 52 knots, with wave heights reaching ten feet.

A throwback to the first image we ever posted of our S.S Edmund Fitzgerald building block set.



Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

10/11/2024

At 4:15 PM, the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald sighted the Arthur M. Anderson approximately 15 miles behind.

After a successful test build, The Brickspace team took our completed model of the Edmund Fitzgerald to the shores of Lake Superior for a commemorative tribute. Secured with a careful adhesive for preservation, the model was floated on the lake’s surface as an homage to the 29 men who lost their lives on that tragic night.



Image Credit: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

10/11/2024

At 2:20 p.m., the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald departed Lake Superior, bound for Detroit with 26,116 tons of taconite pellets. Nearly an hour later, the National Weather Service issued gale warnings for the region through which the Fitzgerald was travelling.

The Brickspace design team assembles a test build of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald set, designated product number #197503.



Image Credit: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

09/11/2024

At 8:30 AM, the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald is loaded with taconite pellets at Burlington Northern Railroad, Dock 1, preparing for its voyage to Zug Island on the Detroit River.

We're proud to share the original prototype models of our S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald set, crafted by designer Tim Henderson. After careful consideration, we decided to modify the model to include a display stand, honoring this iconic vessel. Out of respect for the crew's families, we opted not to produce a version depicting the wreck.



Image Credit: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Own a piece of history with our detailed model set – now available for purchase.

Shop the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Set Here

https://the-brickspace-twin-soo-bricks.myshopify.com/products/the-s-s-edmund-fitzgerald

07/11/2024

Job Posting:

Web Designer (Shopify & Squarespace Experience)

Location:

Remote or Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada

Position Type:

Part-Time, Contract, or Freelance (with potential for full-time)

Start Date: Immediate

About Us:

The Brickspace is a creative community and online shop dedicated to building block enthusiasts. We specialize in custom block sets, unique accessories, and a variety of interactive experiences. We’re launching an exciting new subscription service, Brickspace All Access, and we’re looking for a talented web designer to help us bring it to life!

Role Overview:

We’re seeking an experienced web designer with a strong background in Shopify and Squarespace to implement and design the web pages for Brickspace All Access. This role requires creative design skills and technical expertise in setting up and optimizing e-commerce and subscription-based sites. You will be responsible for creating visually engaging, user-friendly, and high-conversion pages that clearly communicate the value of Brickspace All Access.

Key Responsibilities:

- Design and Build engaging, user-friendly Shopify and Squarespace pages for Brickspace All Access.

- Implement the subscription features for Brickspace All Access on Shopify, ensuring seamless integration with our existing store.

- Create custom landing pages, subscription info pages, and a user account dashboard that enhances user experience and streamlines sign-ups.

- Optimize all pages for both desktop and mobile viewing, ensuring fast load times and smooth functionality.

- Collaborate closely with our marketing team to align visuals with our brand voice, values, and target audience.

- Test and troubleshoot to ensure a flawless launch experience.

Qualifications:

- Proven experience designing and launching Shopify stores and Squarespace websites.

- Familiarity with e-commerce best practices and optimizing for sales and user engagement.

- Proficiency in HTML/CSS and basic understanding of JavaScript or Liquid is a plus.

- Strong portfolio showcasing your web design skills, particularly in e-commerce and subscription models.

- Attention to detail and the ability to work independently while meeting deadlines.

- Bonus: Experience with UX/UI design principles and user experience optimization.

Benefits:

- Competitive pay (hourly or project-based, depending on experience)

- Flexible, remote work environment

- Opportunity to be part of an exciting launch for an innovative new service in the building block community.

- Possible future projects and collaboration with The Brickspace team
If you’re passionate about creating compelling digital experiences and are excited about bringing Brickspace All Access to life, we’d love to hear from you!

To Apply: Please send your resume, portfolio, and a brief description of your experience with Shopify and Squarespace to [email protected]

07/11/2024

🚢✨ Commemorating the Historic Voyage of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald! ✨🚢

This weekend, we’re diving deep into the story of the legendary S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald, following its historic journey and sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes images from the development of our custom Edmund Fitzgerald building block set!

Stay tuned as we post each chapter of this iconic ship’s voyage and provide insights into the creative process from initial design concepts to final builds. You won’t want to miss a single detail of this remarkable story and our dedication to bringing it to life in brick form.

The voyage begins at 2:15 p.m. on Saturday, November 9th, 2024.

05/11/2024

📢 Announcement from The Brickspace 📢

We want to let our valued customers and community know that The Brickspace will be undergoing a restructuring process to improve our services and enhance your experience. During this time, you may notice occasional delays or disruptions across some of our operations, including our website, phone, email, and other services.

Rest assured, if you’ve placed an order with us, it will be fulfilled as soon as we receive items from our suppliers. Our team is dedicated to ensuring every order is handled with care, and we’re here to address any questions or concerns you may have.

We appreciate your patience and support as we work to become an even better company for you! Stay tuned for exciting updates to come, and thank you for being part of our journey. 💙

31/10/2024

🎅✨ The Brickspace Secret Santa 2024 ✨🎅

Do you know a child deserving of a little extra Christmas magic this year?

Back by popular demand, we’re thrilled to announce The Brickspace Secret Santa is returning for its 4th year! 🎄

This year, we’ll be selecting 3 deserving children to receive a very special gift: a custom Lego minifigure designed to look just like them! 🧱 It’s been a challenging year for many kids, and we know some need a little extra cheer. Whether it’s your own child or a friend, nominate them to bring a smile this season!

How to Participate:

👉 Nominees must be under 13.
👉 If your child was selected in a previous year, we kindly ask that you let others share in the joy.
👉 Nominations open November 1st – November 30th, 2024. Simply fill out our form using the link below, and cross your fingers!

https://www.thebrickspace.ca/secretsanta

Let’s spread some holiday spirit and make this Christmas unforgettable! 🌟

22/10/2024

🎉 GIVEAWAY TIME! 🎉

We’re spreading the love and want YOU to join the fun! 🚀

Want a chance to WIN 1 of 3 LEGO City Polybag Sets? 😍 Here’s how to enter:

1️⃣ Invite a friend to like our page! (Tag them below ⬇️) 2️⃣ Like this post! ❤️ 3️⃣ Share this post so everyone can join the fun! 🔄

That’s it! 3 lucky winners will be chosen to snag one of these 2 awesome sets! 🏙️🎁

Let’s build some excitement—get tagging, liking, and sharing! Good luck, everyone! 🍀🤞

✨ Winners will be announced on November 10th, 2024! ✨

21/10/2024

🦈🚤 We’ve got a “fin”-tastic surprise! We just snagged a clone brand building block set of the Jaws style fishing boat and will be reviewing it soon! 🎣🤔 Will it sink or swim? Stay tuned to see how it stacks up (pun intended) against our favourite bricks, and get ready to spot it inside our massive city layout! 👀🏙️

What do you think—will it be smooth sailing or a shark attack? 🦈💥

21/10/2024

🎉 Our massive city display is BACK home and all set up in our studio after its big debut at ! 🏙️🚁

But wait... do you notice anything different about it? 👀✨ We’ve finally started working on the SECOND section of our layout, and it’s going to be EPIC! 🌊🌉 Get ready for a new harbour, a bridge, and a beach/marina area that will take our display to the next level!

Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates in the coming weeks, and drop your guesses in the comments about what else might pop up in the city! 😎🔍

21/10/2024

🚨 Important Announcement: The Brickspace is Leaving Twitter 🚨

After much consideration, we’ve decided to close our Twitter account. While this platform once offered a great way for us to connect with our amazing community, the ongoing toxic behaviour and the increasing presence of inappropriate content no longer align with The Brickspace’s values or brand.

We’re focusing on building a more positive and safe environment for our fans through other platforms and our website. The Brickspace has grown beyond needing Twitter, and we’re excited to continue delivering great content and products in new and better ways.

Thank you for being so supportive, and we look forward to connecting with you in more positive spaces! 💛✨

Stay connected with us via the links below.

https://www.instagram.com/thebrickspacetsb/

https://www.threads.net/?hl=en

https://www.thebrickspace.ca/

—The Brickspace Team

21/10/2024

Why We Made the Switch: Moving to Clone-Branded Building Blocks

At The Brickspace, transparency with our customers is our top priority. We have always been and will continue to be, open and honest about the decisions we make. Recently, we decided to switch from exclusively using Lego bricks to incorporating clone-branded building blocks into our custom sets and models. While this change might surprise some, we want to reassure you that our love for Lego bricks and the Lego Group remains unwavering. However, after much thought and consideration, we believe this switch allows us to deliver better products and experiences to our customers. Here’s why:

1. Affordability without Sacrificing Quality.

Lego bricks are well-known for their exceptional quality, but they come with a high price tag. This makes it difficult for small businesses like ours to offer affordable sets while maintaining a profit. By integrating clone-branded blocks, we can reduce production costs without sacrificing the quality that our customers expect.

These brands provide durable, compatible bricks at a fraction of the cost, allowing us to continue delivering creative and high-quality sets without passing on steep prices to our customers. This means you get more bang for your buck—premium builds at an affordable price.

2. More Design Freedom.

One of the biggest challenges we face when using only Lego bricks is the limited availability of certain elements. Lego, as a company, has strict production standards and is selective about which types of pieces they create. This often leaves us restricted in terms of design possibilities, as we simply can’t access certain parts that would allow us to bring exciting ideas to life.

Clone brands, on the other hand, offer a variety of unique pieces that Lego doesn’t produce. Whether it’s unusual connectors, new shapes, or niche building elements, these pieces are game-changers for us. With them, we can create intricate and innovative models that wouldn’t have been possible with Lego alone. This means more creativity and variety in the sets we offer, allowing us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of building blocks.

3. Expanded Color Options.

Another benefit of switching to clone-branded blocks is the wide array of colours available. As many builders know, colour can make or break a design. Unfortunately, Lego’s colour palette is somewhat limited, especially for rare hues or specialized shades. Clone brands, on the other hand, provide a broader spectrum of colours, making it easier to match specific tones and create vibrant, detailed models.

For us, having more colour options means we can produce models that are truer to life, with the added benefit of simplifying the sourcing process. Instead of hunting down hard-to-find pieces in limited shades, we can access the perfect colours for each project, enhancing the aesthetic quality of our builds and ensuring that every design looks exactly how we envisioned it.

In Conclusion, We understand that some may be hesitant about the switch to clone-branded blocks, but rest assured, we’ve made this decision with your best interests in mind. We still love Lego bricks—they will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we will continue to use them in certain products. However, by incorporating clone-branded building blocks, we can offer you affordable, diverse, and innovative models with more colour options and enhanced design flexibility.

At The Brickspace, our commitment to quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction remains unchanged. Thank you for your trust and support as we continue to evolve and grow. We're excited for the future and can't wait to share what we build next with you!



Photo: Set #190220 The Barnes Block

20/10/2024

🧙‍♂️🏰✨ And the Winners Are...! ✨🏰🧙‍♂️

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the 13th Annual Zombie Walk for our magical Harry Potter scavenger hunt! We had a blast watching you all explore our Hogwarts castle display and track down those hidden items. ⚡

🎉 Drumroll, please... 🎉

The winning tickets are:
🎟️ Ticket #799752
🎟️ Ticket #799753
🎟️ Ticket #799754
🎟️ Ticket #799755

Congratulations to our lucky winners! You've each won a special polybag! 🧩✨ To claim your prize, please DM us with a picture of your winning ticket, and we’ll get you sorted. 🦉

Stay tuned for more fun events, and thank you all for making the Zombie Walk a magical success! 🧟‍♂️🧙‍♀️