Turtle

Layer it off. This is very easy to achieve on Japanese maples. Rooting cuttings is somewhat difficult. Be sure to locate the graft union and layer at least several inches above it or you will only get the understock to break after you remove the layer.

Brent

I cut a small layer on a branch at the top of the tree. I was planning on taking a lot of small layers this year and chopping the trunk next season. It sounds like you are talking about taking one layer right above the intended chop, Brent. Am I right? How big of a layer could I concievably take? Could I take several layers on the main trunk? Will smaller layers have a better chance? I have read a little about it but have never actully done it, so any advice would be helpful and appreciated.
Thanks
Turtle

How about doing both?
I'm getting ready for a similar project. My strategy is to wait until early summer then prune back the new growth to mature leaves on old wood before I layer. That way the tree won't have to support new growth after it's been girdled, but the mature leaves will still be sending down plenty of nutrients for the new roots. Then I'll try to start some cuttings from the pruning.
DR