A Detailed Guide to Bonsai Bending and Shaping Techniques

In bonsai shaping,bendingis an indispensable technique and also a commonly used one. So how do you bend a bonsai? This article will give you a brief introduction toan overview of bonsai bending techniques and methods

Tying with palm fiber

One method of tying with palm fiber

A second method of tying with palm fiber

Tying method with palm fiber: bending downward

Tying method with palm fiber: bending downward (2)

Tying method with palm fiber: bending downward (3). A metal hook is used as the anchor point for the trunk.

When a branch is relatively thick, forcing it downward may cause it to break. Therefore, you can saw a row of cuts into the underside of the branch, wrap it with plastic strips, and then tie it with palm fiber.

Horizontal bending of a horizontal branch.

Horizontal bending of an upward-growing branch

Horizontal bending of an upward-growing branch

Horizontal bending of a drooping branch

Twisting and bending

Continuous bending

Wrapping: winding metal wire around a branch and then bending it.

If you are worried about the metal wire sinking into the bark of the branch, you can first make a strip from kraft paper, cotton cloth, or plastic, wrap it around the metal wire, and if necessary also wrap it around the trunk being shaped

Using metal wire for pulling

Using metal wire and palm fiber together: thin branches are bent by winding with metal wire, while thicker branches are bent by tying with palm fiber

Splitting to assist bending

Cutting to assist bending

Grooving to assist bending

Twist bending

Hanging bend

Iron fittings to assist bending

Pull bending

Featured content