This bulk carrier ship, or bulker, was commissioned by Belgium’s W. L. Shipping as a client appreciation gift. These bulk carriers are the heart of W. L. Shipping’s business, with a fleet of 31 owned and chartered bulkers. Unlike a container or tanker ship, the bulk carrier is designed to transport unpackaged, dry bulk commodities, such as grain or steel products, across oceans.

This impressive custom set was designed by Playwell Bricks’ designer Petrus Gartler. “This was such a fun project to develop,” Petrus says. “The client wanted a model with some functionality to it, but space was limited.” He grins. “Exactly the type of project I love!”

But no Playwell Bricks designer is ever entirely on their own. “I got some help from the team after getting stuck in my head on a styling issue,” Petrus admits. “The solution was so simple, but I just didn’t see it. It happens.”

Petrus goes on to explain that the team also helped with the building instructions. In a set this size, keeping the instructions easy to follow and fun to build is collaborative effort.

“I put quite a lot of thought and testing into the crane’s mechanism to lift up the hook and let the crane pivot on its axis. It was a nice combination of physical mockups and digital building,” Petrus says. Thanks to this animation by Playwell Bricks team member CJ Hendrix, you can see this crane in action below:

If you’d like to commission your own client or staff appreciation gift, contact Playwell Bricks today. Our designers will work your ideas, gifting goals, and budget to create your custom set. Let's build your dreams!