There are many techniques that can be used to make your tree the way you desire. One system is to use wire to create differentiation of the trunk, and give character to the tree itself (BCB). On the branches themselves prune off twiggs and growths from under major branches (BCB). Remove akward leaves (olsen) and cut leaves to desired look. Also, remove the leaves by twisting, pinching or shearing (BCB).

You can grow a bonsai tree from the seed, but growth and development require very precise and persistent care. More popular forms are to asexually reproduce, or to buy in a whole.
After purchasing a tree, you should admire the trunk, branches and particular angles of the bonsai (BCB).