"Hi Scott- we totally  hear you. We intentionally kept clear of Lego's formula. We don't even provide printed instructions in the box. We are into free play open ended construction. They star whole in the center of the block is designed to fit cheap common ubiquitous items like Popsicle sticks and pencils. Again- unlike LEgo we don't want a licensed franchise on what you can stick in our block. It is more a creature of the DIY and Maker movement than the toy industry.We have zero interest in mass market- keeping our eyes on aspiration parents and smart shopper looking for an alternative to the specialized licensed toy market offerings. Lux is currently sold in over 250 specialty toy retailers and museum stores in the US and Canada since its launch last October. We will be in over 450 Barnes and Noble stares this fall, and featured at MoMA design store.  We are fans of Bucky Fuller and  love doing more with less. And currently we have launched Lux with only one single shape. "

"Whoops- I misread shape for staple.   "

"Bucky was a huge inspiration  to us at Lux- the principled block. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TD4kpPaKYY"

""Danish Toy Shape"?   Lux are made in 'merica, man.  :) "