Black Magic Bonsai / Bench reference

Copper wire size chart

A quick reference for choosing a starting size at the bonsai bench.

Package25 ft roll

Use the printed chart as a size guide

The wire silhouettes are drawn at nominal 1:1 diameter. Choose US Letter (8.5 × 11 in), Landscape, and Actual size / 100%, with “Fit to page” off. Measure the calibration bar with a ruler before comparing wire to a silhouette.

Calibration bar: 50 mm

Copper wire dimensions and practical starting notes by AWG
AWG	Copper	Closest aluminum	Availability	Starting note
4 AWG	5.189 mm	5.0 mm	In stock	Very heavy trunk or primary-branch work; plan a secure anchor before bending.
6 AWG	4.115 mm	4.0 mm	In stock	Heavy structural wiring for trunks and substantial primary branches.
8 AWG	3.264 mm	3.5 mm	In stock	Stiff primary branches and larger structural bends.
10 AWG	2.588 mm	2.5 mm	In stock	Heavier trunks and thick primary branches.
12 AWG	2.053 mm	2.0 mm	Out of stock	Strong primary branches on pines and junipers.
14 AWG	1.628 mm	1.5 mm	In stock	Everyday structural wiring for many conifers.
16 AWG	1.291 mm	1.5 mm	Limited availability	Secondary branches; often paired with heavier anchors.
18 AWG	1.024 mm	1.0 mm	Contact to confirm	Ramification and pad shaping.
20 AWG	0.812 mm	1.0 mm	In stock	Fine twigs and delicate deciduous tips.
22 AWG	0.644 mm	0.5 mm	In stock	Ultra-fine detail; use with care to avoid cutting in.