Where do you buy supplies?

Hello Stitchers-

I’ve written about not overbuying supplies. Been there, done that. You should see some of the goodies that I’ve picked up! 
I have no idea how much I’ve spent since I’ve picked up embroidery. I can definitely say it’s too much. Thankfully I got smart and found there are many other places to get my supplies. 
Side note: I still purchase from big retailers occasionally but my aim is to have that be my last stop. 
Some recommendations of alternative places to find materials: 

• Buy/Sell groups, Buy Nothing groups, Facebook Marketplace, your local listservs
  • I once received a (free) giant shopping bag from a neighbor who had way too much stuff.
• Thrift Stores/Estate Sales
  • I've gotten some awesome collections from people downsizing.
• Art Supply "Thrift Stores"
  • I put this one separately because it's a different model than other thrift stores (at least where I go).  The place I go to is a pay what you can model.  
  • I have gotten fabric, needles, buttons, beads, string and so much more.

I write this as we approach Earth Day.  It can be so easy and convenient to go to the big store that has everything or order things online.  Maybe if we all swap out one or two trips/deliveries, it could add up to something better for our earth.  There are tons of quotes out there that speak of small things adding up to bigger things...maybe we should try :)

Any other recommendations?  I would love to hear where else people go!

Ally

(Picture of vintage fabric that I picked up Scrap Happy Art Supply (Scrap Happy Art Supply Thrift | BlackRock Center)