[Trillium]

Definitely agree with Gobs - no flush cuts. Best to leave a small stub which will effectively  block diseases. Won't look pretty but its better than a dying tree.  

[splodger]

i use a number of different hand saws - depends on size of branches - and loppers of dif sizes

clean cuts need no painting - bad cuts might - rips and tears defo

send pic - and i'll try to help - but i am busy doing it real tima at mo - so be patient