[mandirenee]

Craigslist, Ebay, and search internet for clearance.

I recommend the wood trains (vs the plastic or metal)

You can purchase other wood tracks and the Thomas trains will work (vs purchasing the Thomas Brand tracks).

We purchased a set from Toysrus. Imaginarium set with tracks, and table for $99 and then purchased Thomas Trains. We started with Thomas and then on special occasions would purchase a new one. (or if we found a clearance)