Bonsai class for beginners

There is something quietly extraordinary about bonsai. A single tree, shaped by hand, growing in a small container — a living work of art that can outlast generations.

At Merchant & Green, lead by our founder Chris Saban, we’ve been teaching an introduction to the art of bonsai from our boutique Redfern studio for nearly a decade. In this 90-minute workshop, our expert team will guide you through the fundamentals — from selecting your tree and understanding its natural form, to shaping, potting and styling your own handcrafted bonsai to take home.

No experience needed. No green thumb required. Just a genuine curiosity and a willingness to slow down.

What you’ll learn

• An introduction to the philosophy of bonsai — its origins and development through Japanese Buddhist tradition

• How to assess a tree’s natural form and begin shaping it

• Potting technique — drainage, soil layering and root positioning

• How to style your bonsai using decorative stones and moss

• Long-term care — watering, sunlight, pruning and seasonal maintenance

The experience

Merchant & Green is a working florist and plant studio — not a craft classroom. You’ll work inside our light-filled Redfern studio, surrounded by premium plants and fresh flowers, guided by our expert botanical team who work with plants every day.

With over 998 five-star reviews and nearly a decade of workshop experience, we’ve built a reputation as Sydney’s most trusted botanical workshop studio. Every class is small, personal and genuinely memorable.

Perfect for

• Individuals and couples

• Birthday celebrations and creative catch-ups

• Social occasions

• Corporate team building — private bookings from 6–30 guests in our studio, or 6–30 at your CBD location (private booking surcharge may apply depending on location)

• Thoughtful experience gifts

Class details

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Cost: $195

• Public classes: 1–6 guests for personalised attention

• Private bookings: 6–30 guests — studio or we come to you

• Location: 686 Bourke Street, Redfern

• All materials, tools and guidance included

Free to reschedule with 3 days notice. No cancellations. A $30pp rebooking fee applies to late cancellations and no-shows.

What you’ll get

• A premium miniature tree suitable for bonsai styling

• Choice of Asian-style ceramic bonsai pot

• Specialised potting mix, decorative stones and moss

• Professional tools and one-on-one guidance throughout

• Merchant & Green bonsai care card

Everything provided — just arrive and create.

Knowledge required

No experience needed. All skill levels welcome.

What to bring

Nothing — all materials, tools and equipment are provided. Just arrive ready to create.