Though one thing I learned too slowly and I am sure many who got serious into the hobby would agree with is that you rarely lose if you buy direct from
@TheChipRoom sales. And always buy more than you think you need!
One sentiment I see a lot is that you are essentially renting the sets, as you can sell and recoup most if not more than you bought for. If I was in the US vs Canada I would buy a lot more, shipping/exchange/etc prevent me from doing this (that and I dont like to sell chips).
If you can buy direct from Jim's sales and buy something that others seem to be interested in, then you are that much further ahead.
And I would only buy China Clay's if you plan to delete your account and remove this site from your browser immediately after you receive them. Otherwise you are bound to find an expensive chip you *have* to have. Case in point,
@Jeevansluck