I just finished this carved "ibigawa" rock planting with shimpaku juniper!

[NewWorldBonsai]

I followed Kimura's basic approach and I'm really happy with the results, all things considered.

If you want a custom carved rock please message me. If the National show isn't canceled I'll likely be going so you can pick it up then or I can ship anywhere.

 

[chicago1980]

Post more photos of examples

 

[NewWorldBonsai]

Post more photos of examples

Will do in the future! I've got a few more stone carving projects I've been itching to do for years.

Here is a great tutorial by the man himself.

 

[Michael P]

Please wear a good respirator while doing this!

 

[vp999]

Is it Tufa rock? I've been trying to source a decent size Tufa in the US with no luck, but there's a bunch in Europe.

 

[NewWorldBonsai]

Please wear a good respirator while doing this!

Excellent advice, I soak the rock thoroughly and yes it still gets all over my hair and eyes, even with protection, but thankfully it eliminates the fine particles. If you've never had a volcanic cornea scrub you're really missing out.

 

[NewWorldBonsai]

Is it Tufa rock? I've been trying to source a decent size Tufa in the US with no luck, but there's a bunch in Europe.

I'm not familiar with Tufa rock, I use essentially a giant piece of pumice to copy Kimura's technique. Perhaps there is a better rock available elsewhere; I've heard some people make them entirely from cement. Nothing wrong with experimenting. Always wear eye protection, harder rock can shatter and really hurt you.