This step-by-step pictorial is designed to guide begin-
ners through the mechanical process of cutting, shaping
and transplanting fairly simple bonsai material for the frst
time. It makes the assumption that the reader has already
done some research and has a basic understanding of the
fundamental shaping concepts used in the art of bonsai
such as:
1. Triangulation and asymmetrical composition.
2. Primary, secondary and tertiary branch identif-
cation and placement.
3. Selection of primary viewing angle based on
trunk movement and rootage .
If you do not understand the three concepts outlined
above, you would be well advised to invest in a little more
research time before beginning this exercise. This is be-
cause the single most diffcult thing for beginners to master
is the ability to “see” the bonsai hiding inside the mass of