You may need to plant it in the ground for a few years if the trunk isn't thick enough. You may also want to read up on trunk chop as well as wiring (bonsai wire is more ductile than the stuff at the hardware store and you may need to check for the metal used (there are steel and aluminum ones) since they can be toxic to trees.

Hey, Tammy!

Stock up on Turface ;-)

To start, you'll want to study soil composition and water movement/drainage.
Bonsai have even more particular mix requirements because of the small volume in which they grow.
A free-draining, gritty mix is essential with most species.

Read as much as you can, here and elsewhere, and perhaps even join a local bonsai group.

Josh

Chinese elms and Junipers are good starter trees. They both take a lot of abuse and bounce back well. Just remember they are full sun outdoor trees. Most of the bonsai enthusiasts make their own soil as it must be free draining and not hold too much water. There's a lot more to bonsai but once you learn how to keep them alive you are on your way. Good luck!