Raphia is used to provide support to branches when they are being bent into proper position. Raphia is applied wet and will shrink when it dries providing a nice tight covering on the branch. Raphia helps keep the bark/branch from breaking.

Bjorn Bjorholm Rafia demo by BonsaiPoint  New 02-18-2018 Note: Really great video on using Rafia.

Bonsai demo by the Kimura disciples by Bonsai Empire  New 09-04-2019

Bonsai at Extreme Locations | Bonsaikunst Hamburg Demo by Bjorn Bjorholm  New 06-21-2020

David Benavente 2nd Bonsai Demonstration for the Bonsai Association Belgium Trophy 2021 by Dean Kelly Bonsai  New 02-25-2021

Mugo Pine KENGAI STYLE by Mauro Stemberger  New 06-26-2020

The Bender (Scots Pine) by Mauro Stemberger  New 04-02-2019 Nice example of applying rafia.

raphia1, raphia 2, raphia 3, raphia 5, raphia 6, rapfia 7, raphia 8 , Wire/Bending/Branch Placement by Francios Gau   Nice set of video’s showing  you how Raphia is applied and used. Note: No video 4.

Restoring a Neglected Chinese Juniper Bonsai by Bonsai Releaf  New 02-17-2021