Hey I am looking to do my first air layer of my acer tree this year and was wondering if this looks a suitable branch to go with? It has a bit of a curve and hopefully will thicken nicely in a large pot? Thanks for advice in advance

It is not very thick...

So, yes, you COULD use that branch. I would however consider using something a little more mature. Does your tree need more big prunes? The nain trunk for instance?

In growing bonsai, taper in branches and trunks is of importance. one of the easiest ways to get taper is to cut a big limb down, and let a young sprout take over. The big section cut off is often a good layering candidate.

Thanks, I’ve attached another photo of the tree. I don’t want to ruin the tree it currently is but really want to save some years on a acer bonsai. In the photo you can see a thick branch leading up to the one I marked, could this be a good candidate? It’s very straight though

Are you planning to grow the main tree as bonsai or only the airlayering?

The tree itself was a gift from my mum 5 years ago so I’d like to just air layer suitable bits for bonsai while keeping the main tree as is

Then I would concider airlayering further down that trunk direct over the left facing branch. That gives you a thicker airlayering with more taper and mowement. And also adds tapering to the main trunk.

Do you mean here then cut the branch with the clump off? Really appreciate the advice

Yes, that would create good taper. I would however layer a little bit higher; The trunk should not just be a straight trunk, so you can only use some 5 cm of that thicker section.

If you are learning, maybe first layer the clump higher up, see how it works and next year take the piece you really want. Or .. go all in and just do it right the first time

Do you know
www.growingbonsai.net/bonsai-layering-step-by-step-explanation/

Yes, that is what I ment. However leatherback has a good point in doing it a little bit higher to avoid too long straight section.