Create Your Own Bonsai

There is something truly magical about bonsai — the ancient art of shaping and training miniature trees to reflect the beauty and character of full grown trees in nature. Rooted in Chinese and Japanese tradition, bonsai is both a craft and a practice of patience.

In this hands-on 2.5 hour workshop, instructor Dave Gehrs will guide you step by step through the process of designing and creating your very own living bonsai tree. You'll choose your own pot and pre-bonsai plant, then learn how to shape and design your tree through trimming, wiring, and bending branches. Dave will also walk you through bonsai soil, root pruning, potting, and proper watering so you can keep your tree healthy and thriving long after the workshop is over.

This is a small, intimate class in a studio space designed for making and learning. With plenty of room to spread out and focus, this workshop is about more than just a fun night out — it's a foundation class that gives you a genuine introduction to bonsai as a craft, with the techniques and knowledge you'll need to continue growing and developing your practice for years to come.

No experience necessary — just a curiosity for this beautiful and meditative art form!

Everything you need is provided, including your bonsai pot, a mini jade pre-bonsai that you can begin shaping and take home with you, bonsai soil, sculpting wire, and a bonsai care sheet to take home.

Instructor: Dave Gehrs 

Date: Friday, July 17 

Time: 6pm – 8:30pm 

Location: Main Street Studio, 786 Charlton Road, Charlton NY 12019

Workshop Costs: $109 non-members / $98.10 members (use member promo code at checkout!) Materials, tax and bonsai to take home with you included. 

About Dave Gehrs:

Dave Gehrs has been a bonsai enthusiast for over 35 years, and his passion for the art of miniature trees, Suiseki (viewing stones), and Japanese gardens runs deep. With a strong foundation in core bonsai techniques — including pruning, trimming, wiring, repotting, and tree care — Dave has been teaching beginner and intermediate workshops throughout the Capital District, making bonsai approachable and enjoyable for newcomers.

His workshops emphasize creativity, patience, and a deep respect for nature, with plenty of hands-on experience to guide students through the process of creating their own perfect tiny tree.

Dave is also a valued member of Main Street Studio, where he spends much of his time creating ceramic bonsai pots and wooden bonsai stands. We are so excited to have him share his bonsai knowledge with our community.