I agree with you on the Hardware store! I don't have a "side cutter" either, maybe we do!?! I stay away from "the Tools!"
BUT, my husband found me some Mason's Line---It's like Bakers' Twine only it's Black & White! The hardware for Stamp cleaner too! (Simple Green). The Art Supply store- for basic art supplies! Instead of buying from a Stamp company & you USUALLY get more! A fabric store or Walmart for Ribbons & lace & other accessories for your cards, from beads to copy paper & sharpie markers. Sometimes, SAMS' has goodies too! I look EVERYWHERE I go!!!!!!!