Blue and purple Connectors allow for the construction of 3D shapes. Connecting the two, however, can be tricky. Hold one Connector in each hand so that the long, open slots face each other, then turn one Connector a quarter turn and slide the two Connectors together until you feel a firm click. Now you are ready to construct 3D models!

Did you know that a Gold Splicer is half the size of a black Chain Link? Some of our very best builders have called to say, when building a chain according to K'NEX instructions, their chain is too long. This is possible since the chain links have the ability to stretch. So when connecting links that are a tad too long for the model, remember that you can substitute a gold Splicer for a Chain Link to fix the difference.

Builders must pay close attention to the positioning of Tan Locks, Gears, Blue Spacers and Connectors shown in the instructions. K'NEX instructions often display these pieces spread apart on the Rod. This is done so the builder can see the exact angle of the Locks, Spacers and Gears. Once the parts are in place, they need to be pushed together (which the instructions don't show) to fit on the Rod.

Tan Connectors are used to lock a Rod and Connector or a Rod and Gear together to produce movement in a model. When building, make sure that any tan Connectors that are used as locks have their knobs facing the correct way on the Rod and are pushed or "locked" into the proper Gear or Connector.

You've run out of the parts you need to finish a model - no problem! With K'NEX, you can create various Rod lengths and angles by substituting with other K'NEX parts. We'll bet you'll find even more combinations than this.

One of our very best builders shared this bit of advice - Slide a Rod through the hole of the Connector first. As you get your second Rod into position on the Connector, grasp both Rods with two hands and pull together until you hear the second Rod snap into place.

If your K'NEX model is supposed to walk but it's not, be sure to check the construction of the legs. The connections attached on each side of the Rod that protrudes from the motor must be opposite in order for the legs of the model to move alternately back and forth in a "walking" motion. Following the instructions for your model, the Connector on one side should be pointing up or back while the other points down or back.

If you've ever tried to snap a Rod into every open space of a Connector, you probably know how tough it can be. Lucky for your fingers, we have a tip. Put the Connector, along with the Rods, on a hard surface. Then use you thumb or palm to press the Rods into the Connector. The sturdiness of the hard surface makes your job a little easier.