AusBonsai

First off Merry Xmas,

Now for my question...

When it comes to planning for bonsai, I find I start off with an idea of what I want. I start cutting, wiring etc, then halfway through the execution phase, I change my mind.

Is this normal?

If I have a nursery stock tree and I am looking for inspiration with shaping it, then look through some pictures on the internet.

There is an old adage along the lines of "even the best of battle plans goes out the window when the first shot is fired" and so it is with design. One needs a focus (ie, plan) but also not to be so rigid as to discount opportunities. I make a sketch of where I want a tree to go so that I can trim to that plan, but I only draw in pencil.

Wayne

Totally normal to review tree at any time. Even while styling it
Most people probably continue with the plan but if a new idea comes along after you open the tree then why not use it if you think it better

Nature has a way of having her own plans, and she trumps ours. We have to work with what she gives us

What makes God laugh? - Make a plan.