How to Build to Scale

Building to scale means that we measure how big a real object is and then make a model either bigger or smaller using the same proportions as the real thing.

A model that is smaller than a real life object is scaled down.  In LEGOLAND, CA models are scaled down, and built to a 1:20 scale.  That means that each Lego model is 20 times smaller than a real building. 

A model that is built larger than a real life object is considered scaled up.  Scientists use scaled up models of ants using a 20:1 scale.  That means that each ant model is 20 times larger than a real ant.

Models can also be made the same size as the real object, this is called full scale or life size.  Stores sometimes have cardboard cut-outs of sports figures.  Kids then stand next to the 1:1 scale / life size model to see how tall they are compared to the real person.
 

Calculating Scale
 

REAL OBJECT HEIGHT ÷ MODEL HEIGHT = SCALE

A Minifig (Lego Person) is 1.5 inches tall in the world of minifigs.  In the real world this represents a 6 foot tall person. 
Therefore, the minifig scale is 1:48. 

72" (Real Person)    ÷    1.5" (Minifig)    =    48 (Scale)

If you were to stack 48 minifigs on top of each other they would be 6' tall. 
 

Working With Scale
 

REAL OBJECT ÷ BUILDING SCALE = MODEL SIZE

Once your scale is determined you can now take any real life object and find out what size your model should be.  For example, if you want to build a replica model of a 20 foot tall building at a 1:48 scale follow these steps:

First convert all units of measurement, then use the formula:
Real Object ÷ Building Scale = Model Size.

20' x 12" = 240"      240"  ÷  48  =  5 inches    
Your model should be made 5" tall.


If you already have your model built and you know your scale then you can figure out the dimensions of the real building using this formula:

MODEL SIZE x BUILDING SCALE = REAL OBJECT

 
5" (Model) x 48 (Scale)  =  240" or 20' Tall (Real Building)
 

Comparing Scales
 

1:2 Scale
Yellow Lego Block Compared to Red Duplo Block
Twice as high, Twice as Wide, Twice as Long




Common Model Train Scales

1:8 Scale means the model train is 8 times smaller than a real train.

1:220 Scale means the model train is 220 times smaller than a real train.
 

Scale Conversions

Common Building Scales