Choosing a Bonsai Stand

Welcome to Choosing a Bonsai

I will first describe how I design Bonsai stands, and then how to Choose one.
How I design Bonsai Stands:
 The Bonsai stand's purpose is to help frame the pot and tree.  
When I design a stand I have to consider the "energy" flow of the stand.  For example, if the legs are curved, the curves of the legs of the stands should be in a upward direction, and towards the center of the tree.  If the grain of the wood is visible, it should also be pointing to center of tree.  This maintains an energy flow for entire display.

Curved Leg Style Energy Flow

 
Choosing a Bonsai Stand
Choosing a bonsai stand for your tree is an important part of bonsai display, as the right stand can give your display the ability to attract attention, framing it beautifully so the viewer can appreciate its details of the tree.  
1. Consider the Size of the Tree
The length and width of the stand should generally be slightly wider than the pot to provide a balanced look.
Measure the width and depth of your bonsai pot, and aim for a stand with dimensions slightly larger to create space around the tree.
2. Select a Shape
Rectangular or Square Stands: Great for most all bonsai trees.  If you look at Bonsai Shows on-line, most all stands are squares or rectangles.  The reason is that other shapes like oval & round are not necessary wrong, but they are hard to find.  I make oval and round Bonsai stands in a low profile style that are only 1-3"tall.

 3. Height of the Stand
Taller stands are often used to bring the tree it up to eye level for easy viewing, and also is good for large tree with large pots. 
The Most Important Fact in selecting the Stand Size and Shape:
It is your personal choice as an Bonsai artist that counts the most.  Chooses a size and shape that makes you feel good when looking at the display as whole.

 4. Material and Finish
Wood Stands: I use many different types of materials including, oak, cherry, mahogany, walnut, or solid black color on wood.  I would recommend a satin finish as opposed to gloss.  A stand with a satin or matte finish works well to keep the viewer’s attention on the bonsai itself.
5. Color and Texture
I make stands in different colors including , red mahogany stain, dark walnut stain, or natural neutral tones for wood that don't distract from the tree.
A stand with a satin or matte finish works well to keep the viewer’s attention on the bonsai itself.
6. Consider Display Environment
For indoor display, any type of wood for stands will work.
For outdoor displays  I would recommend the stands should be made with waterproof glue, and the finish should be a spar varnish.

Summary of Key Tips:
Ensure the stand is slightly larger than the pot, in Length and Width.
Use a stand height It is also up to you as an artist to choose.  You may chooses a height that makes you feel good when looking at the display as whole.
Choose a stand material and color that blends with your pot and tree.
The perfect bonsai stand should feel like a natural extension of the tree, enhancing its beauty while remaining understated.