The tree was studied closely from all sides to evaluate the best front and to choose the branch placement for the tree. This stage is crucial to the styling of the Bonsai, and can take some time to make the right decision.

Branches which are unnecessary to the tree's design are pruned,
leaving a short stub to be jinned later.

Old needles were then plucked to help with the wiring and to improve the overall appearance of the tree, including needles which hung down from branches.

Tim concentrating hard in the studio - each branch and twig is wired with Japanese copper wire - very time consuming, but vital to have complete control over branch placement.

Each branch has been carefully wired - Japanese copper wire allows a smaller gauge to be used than aluminium and can stay on the tree longer. The copper wire also dulls down over time and blends with the tree to become less obtrusive.

The tree completed - for this stage of its development
Over the coming months each foliage pad will be developed to become more dense and compact by feeding and pinching at the appropriate times.

The tree will be allowed to recuperate for some time before repotting into a suitable pot.