I think your project sounds lovely, Colorado Quilter.
Typically Walmarts around here do have the clear vinyl to sew through, they might have other choices as well.
Also look at wide ribbons while there, sometimes you can find wonderful stuff wound around a spool. . Even if they have wire edges you can take or cut those out. Again do a wash/durability test even if you don't expect to need it. Some dollar stores also have some pretty nice trims and stuff for weddings or parties and that might be another place to look. My local store (Dollar Tree) doesn't have much of a craft section, but the one out by my mom's has rows of stuff.