I use a combination of stabilizers, depending on what I'm doing - some more expensive, some less. I've made it a habit to check out prices because they vary (sometimes a lot!) and I do love to make a dime scream for mercy before I let it go :lol:
For tearaway, I bought a 50 yard roll from Zieglers on E-Bay. That was a year and a half ago, and I still have some - for under $20. Here's a link to their store: http://tinyurl.com/8e2wb
For t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc. I really like poly mesh - it holds up well, and the fusible helps keep stretchy material from stretching :-) I've used Floriani (love that but can be pricey) and Inspira (not fusible, so have to use the temporary adhesive spray with that .) My Embroidery Haven is having a sale on Floriani right now: http://www.myembroideryhaven.com/ I use Inspira's water soluble exclusively just because I like it best :D
I tried the Sulky sticky once; a nightmarish experience I don't want to repeat. My machines just hate it for some reason (but some just love it - go figure!) If your machine likes it, it is usually included when the fabric stores put their notions wall on sale (the temp adhesive spray is usually on sale then too, which is when I stock up.)
The one thing I personally don't do is to use things like coffee filters, etc. - these machines are much more expensive and complicated these days, and 'cheaper' can equal a big repair bill (as Gertie and I can attest to :? ) I saw the thread guides that were chewed nearly in two because the previous owner used 'cheaper' thread - it wasn't pretty.