Purchasing Trays and Pots
There are a number of places where you can purchase bonsai pots. Check your local garden center, or better still your local bonsai specialist. However, it is more likely that you won’t have a bonsai specialist in your local area so purchasing online is a great option. A good place to start is the Bonsai Pots Online Resource. They have Chinese and Japanese pottery of all types and colors to choose from. Another source for purchasing trays and pots online is the Dallas Bonsai Garden website. They have an complete line of bonsai supplies at unbeatable prices.
Purchasing Tools
Shaping and styling a bonsai tree should be done in a very artistic manner and the use of the right bonsai tool can make a difference. Those who are newly interested in the art of bonsai are often unsure about what tools are necessary to begin developing their bonsai skills. A complete set of bonsai tools is not necessary for the beginner. Start with a concave pruner and perhaps a pair of bud scissors. Purchase other tools as expertise and requirements increase. You can purchase tools individually or a set if you prefer at an online bonsai site such as JoeBonsai.com. They have just about everything you will need to help you keep your bonsai trimmed.
Books on Bonsai
There are many good books on the care and maintenance of bonsai and books with photos of well trained bonsai are an excellent source of inspiration. Good bonsai books are available in many bookstores, especially the larger ones. Your local library can be a good place to check out books on bonsai if you are not ready to purchase one. The "Introduction to Bonsai Plants" shown here is an excellent book for beginners. It covers all the basics plus information on how to properly use bonsai tools and various growing methods. It can be downloaded for a reasonable price. If you are looking for something different in the way of bonsai books there are many resources availiable online as well.