I would choose vtc4's over the vtc5's. They will handle more power if you are really turning it up. I do use the 25R's for a little more life at lower power levels.
For cotton, I like Cotton Bacon although you can use organic cotton balls.
Wire, for temp control use 28 or 30 awg Ni200. For non temp control, it really depends on what atty and what you want to do.