Bonsai class for beginners
From City of Sydney · Last checked 14 Nov. That's our last look, not a live ticket check.
Event details may change. Confirm times, availability and prices with the organiser before attending.
The lowdown
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.
Where to rock up
686 Bourke St, Redfern, Sydney
