Depending on the activity and the age of the children, I currently buy my supplies from a range of shops (Kmart, Reject Shop, Value shops, Riot Art & Craft stores)

I currently buy supplies from a range of shops; art stores and value shops. I pay more for good paints.

Thanks for asking this good question; will be following the answers as I am interested too!

Ebay
If you’re not in a hurry to receive items (2 week wait)
I always scan Ebay for beads and things if you change it to worldwide search you will return items from china, hong kong etc much cheaper and you can buy a lot in bulk with free postage
I have been doing it for ages and have had hardly any issues (a couple of no show/lost items) but if you use Paypal you’re covered for any loss anyway.

Also use the ending soon option and put in a maximum price and you will find a lot of bargains 🙂

Ooh thanks for asking this question I’ll be watching the answers. I only know of scrapbooking sites.