The proper bonsai tools are important to get the most from your trees. While beginners should start with a minimal set of tools, as they grow more committed to the hobby, they will need more specialized bonsai tools.
A basic set of Bonsai scissors and a good quality pair of wire cutters are the most essential tool for trimming, pruning and training your tree. There are many Bonsai shears available, with different shapes, lengths and strength. If you choose to purchase a shear set, look for ones that are well reviewed and have a thoughtful assortment of the most used tools. Also, a good pair of tweezers for removing weeds is useful as your trees develop.
Other tools that are important for shaping include the jin plier and knob cutter. The jin plier is designed to separate bark from wood, which can be difficult with thick branches. This tool allows you to cut through the wood with precision and is a vital piece of equipment for creating jin. Knob cutters have a rounded shape that allow the blade to bite into the wood quickly and efficiently and remove large amounts of material with each stroke.
A root hook is helpful for repotting and loosening old, clumpy soil around the roots. Another useful tool is the rake, which is used to break up compacted soil and help the root ball penetrate the substrate when repotting. Larger powertools are available for cutting more hardy wood, but they are not needed for most beginners. If you are going to invest in larger power tools, choose a tool with a adjustable speed dial so that you can control the power of the bit being used.