Mastering the Art of Bonsai: Growing and Shaping Techniques

Tools and Materials

A course by Alex Mendoza , Bonsai artist and nursery owner

51 students

Audio: English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese

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About the video: Tools and Materials

Overview

“Lastly, you'll learn about all the essential tools you'll need to care for your bonsai, along with their specific uses. ”

In this video lesson Alex Mendoza addresses the topic: Tools and Materials, which is part of the Domestika online course: Mastering the Art of Bonsai: Growing and Shaping Techniques. Master bonsai art with step-by-step techniques for pruning, wiring, and repotting to create stunning miniature trees.

Partial transcription of the video

“What we're going to talk about in this lesson are the different tools and materials that you're going to need to be able to work on your bonsai. Now don't get overwhelmed by all the tools. The most important thing is that you have some bonsai scissors. and maybe some concave cutters. What you see here are some pruning scissors. These are with the narrow edge. And, They're very thin so that you can get into bushy type of trees. or They tend to be long so that you can get into the nooks and crannies of the branches. Now. Generally speaking, these are the ones that you're going to use. because...”

This transcript is automatically generated, so it may contain mistakes.

Course summary for: Mastering the Art of Bonsai: Growing and Shaping Techniques

Level: Beginner
51 students
4 units
15 lessons (2h 27m)
4 downloads

Category
Craft
Areas
DIY, Floral & Plant Design

Alex Mendoza

A course by Alex Mendoza

Teacher Plus

Bonsai artist and nursery owner

Alex Mendoza is a bonsai artist and nursery owner based in Miami, Florida, originally from Guatemala. His journey began in childhood with a fascination for miniatures, which later evolved into a deep connection with the art of bonsai. What started as a therapeutic practice during the pandemic soon became a thriving business, drawing a wide audience through social media and earning recognition at state-level exhibitions.

Alex blends artistic intuition with horticultural expertise, guiding enthusiasts through the creative and technical aspects of bonsai cultivation. His approach emphasizes harmony with nature and long-term tree development, supported by a deep understanding of species care, pruning, wiring, and design. Influenced by artists like Peter Chan and Bjorn Bjorholm, he continues to share his knowledge through hands-on instruction, social platforms, and workshops aimed at building confident, thoughtful bonsai creators.