I want to raise a limb on a dogwood next to my patio by 9 inches. So far I have been using a very visible nylon cord (and sections of used hose to protect the bark). I would like to substitute wire, like those used to stake trees, to make it less visible, again also using sections of hose to protect the bark. But I cannot seem to get much tension in the wire. Does anyone know the name of the type of tool landscapers use to put tension in the wire when they stake trees? I have been told it is a little hand held thing.

Any thoughts on other ways to raise a limb without losing it?