Bonsai Tools

The world of bonsai tools is a bewildering sea of choices. There seem to be so many brands, tool patterns and obscure looking items it's hard to know where to start. Here at Kaizen Bonsai we have been working on bonsai trees for over 25 years now. In that time we have used just about everything available. From that experience we have distilled everything we learned into a coherent and compact range of items we know work well, are good quality and are things you will need too.

We are regularly asked what bonsai tools to buy. The simple answer is to buy the best you can afford and if you are on a budget buy the basics first and add to your tool kit as you go. All bonsai tools are hand made by skilled craftsmen in very small numbers so, in comparison to mass market DIY and industrial tools seem expensive but that is only because the production cost is high. There are some poor quality tools out there but you will not find them here. However, YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR, a simple pair of basic pruning shears range from about £7.50 to £77. Quality cost money and always has done and if you want the best you will have to pay for it. Each pattern of tool is designed to do a very specific job and to cut within certain limits, choose your tools to do the job you need, where possible we have given information alongside each tool listing to help you understand what the tool will do and it's cutting capacity.

We offer four primary bonsai tool ranges to suit all levels of experience and budget.

Basic Bonsai Tools - Perfect for those new to bonsai or those with just a few trees to maintain. Chinese produced tools designed in traditional patterns but lacking the superior finish of more expensive tools. These are the tools included in our Bonsai Basics Tool kits.

Superior Black Carbon Steel Bonsai Tools - High grade Japanese carbon steel. Hand made bonsai tools engineered to last and finished to a very high standard in black oxide with polished blades. We buy direct from the factory so you get the best price possible, do not be fooled by the low price these are top quality bonsai tools. These are the tools included in our Superior Quality Bonsai Tool kits.

Superior Stainless Steel Bonsai Tools - High grade Japanese stainless steel. Hand made bonsai tools engineered to last. This range of tools are polished stainless steel and will not rust even if you leave then outside in winter. We buy direct from the factory so you get the best price possible, do not be fooled by the low price these are top quality bonsai tools. These are the tools included in our Superior Quality Bonsai Tool kits.

Masakuni Bonsai Tools - Considered by many to be the best bonsai tools in the world. Manufactured by a generations old company in Japan still under family ownership. We offer the Series #8000 tools which have a patented stainless coating. Masakuni tools have extremely hard cutting edges that last and last, however the blades can be brittle if used incorrectly. A cutting guide is provided with each tool and you SHOULD follow Masakuni's advice regarding the use of their tools. Not for the ham fisted and not recommended for beginners.