Types of Scissors for Your Bonsai Pruning

Japanese Bonsai Scissors: An Essential Guide

Bonsai is a hobby and profession that requires skill, patience, and precision. As a bonsai enthusiast, one of the most important tools you will need is a good pair of bonsai scissors. However, choosing the right scissors for your needs can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider. In this article, we will discuss the different sizes and types of bonsai scissors, bonsai shears, bonsai trimmers and their uses, to help make your shopping experience easier.

Different Sizes of Bonsai Scissors

Japanese bonsai scissors come in different sizes, which are specified in mm, such as 7" (180mm), 8" (200mm), (205mm), 8. 1/4" (210mm), and so on. When deciding on the size of your scissors, take a look at your garden and determine how dramatically the sizes of your trees vary and how much ramification they have. If you have both small and large trees, one set of scissors in one size won't suffice. This is also true for tools like branch cutters and knob cutters. As your trees grow larger, you will need bigger tools. Typically, the factors that decide this will be branch thickness and foliage tightness.

For thicker branches, you will need larger tools (make sure you can tell when to cut a branch with scissors and when it's too thick for scissors and requires branch cutters). Foliage tightness can also call for a different type of scissor, which we will talk about later.

Pruning with Bonsai Scissors

Pruning is a fundamental practice in bonsai that involves removing unwanted or excess branches and leaves.This is because there will always be branches that cannot be used and need to be removed or branches that have grown too long and need to be shortened. There may also be young shoots that emerge from branches at the wrong angle and need to be removed. To perform pruning effectively, you need to select the right scissors or shears for the task. For instance, heavier duty scissors, such as general bonsai scissors, are appropriate for removing heavier branching, while trimming scissors are thinner at the cutting end and have a more delicate shank, making them suitable for use in tighter confines.

Types of Bonsai Scissors: Choosing the Right Size and Shape

There are two main types of bonsai scissors: general purpose bonsai scissors and trimming scissors. General purpose bonsai scissors are durable and strong, making them ideal for cutting thicker branches and roots. They sacrifice delicacy for strength and are suitable for a wide variety of cuts.

Trimming scissors, on the other hand, have a thinner cutting blade and a more delicate shank, making them ideal for detail work in tight spaces. They are designed to fit between leaves and maneuver easily in compact foliage zones.

In addition to selecting the appropriate type of bonsai scissors, it is also important to choose the right size and shape. Bonsai scissors and shears come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and selecting the right one for the job can make a significant difference in the outcome.

For example, if you have small bonsai trees, it is not necessary to buy large shears and pliers. Instead, opt for smaller shears with a narrower and longer shape, which make it easier to work in the middle of a dense canopy. There are also small shears that are specifically designed for shohin bonsai or for trimming azaleas and removing their wilted flowers.

In conclusion, selecting the right bonsai scissors and shears is critical to the success of your bonsai tree. By choosing the appropriate tool for the job, you can achieve clean and precise cuts without causing damage to your tools or your trees. With the right tools and a little practice, you can master the art of bonsai and create beautiful miniature trees that will bring joy and tranquility to your home or garden.

Let us know introduce you several popular models for bonsai pruning an dtrimming from Wazakura collections.

Types of Scissors

Traditional Model:

Widely know scissors with butterfly design for general purposes as they tend to be quite strong.(Stainless version available)

Wazakura Yasugi Steel Tradional Model Bonsai Scissors
US$39.99 Free shipping to US, CA, and UK.

Experience the time-honored art of bonsai with Wazakura exquisite Traditional model made from Yasugi steel and skillfully handforged by third-generation bonsai tool artisans in the historic city of Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture. Sanjo is known since 17th century for the metalwork skills of their artisans and blacksmiths.

>Click here to see our Traditional user guide

Ashinaga:

Variation of the butterfly design with longer reach to help reach deeper into the bonsai.

>Click here to learn more

Satsuki:

Long scissors with smaller frame; recommended model when the leaves and branches are so many, a special frame and reach is required for precise trimming instead of strength.

>Click here to learn more

One of these scissors is all you need to get started nice and simple. Still, for better results and improvement, specialized tools will be required.

Wazakura Starter Set:

Scissors, rake, pliers and broom.

>Click here to learn more

Twig & Mini Scissors:

For very detailed trimming and mini bonsai trees as well. Based on the tree you are taking care, these scissors may adapt better.

>Click here to learn more

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