It is available as anodised aluminium or annealed copper; aluminium wire is generally easier to apply for beginners and can be reused (though this is not recommended). Copper wire is more difficult to apply but has more holding power.
A selection of bonsai wire, both anodised and plain
To get a feel for the size of wire needed, try bending the wood (branch or trunk), and get some idea of the effort involved, then try and apply the same effort to the wire you wish to use.
There are two types of bonsai wire - anodised aluminium and annealed copper. The copper wire is harder and more powerful than the aluminium wire. For this reason beginners are advised to start with aluminium wire.
Wire the trunk using anodised aluminium wire (available from Imperial Bonsai Nursery) first then wire thicker branches starting at the lowest part.
This skill takes a lot of practice.
Anodised aluminium wire is very popular, being brown in colour and therefore inconspicuous when applied neatly.
 See also: Wire, Bonsai, Tree, Position, Trunk
|
