This hasn't been the case in my experience, but I don't doubt it can happen.

Framed this way, it's useful for saving time creating or finding those snippets at least.

I'd think the usual trusted sources for an authentic one - digikey, mouser, sparkfun.

Amazon, ebay, and similar others for the (cheaper) counterfeits.

What are you basing this off of? Do you actually have any experience making art? Or is this just learned helplessness talking?

Also please stop implying I said any 12 year old can do this. I didn't. Once again, I said anyone who puts in the time can do what 12-year old Michelangelo did.