Hi, As far as the hardware, yes Lowes will have a bunch, check A.C Moore or Micheal's for all the soft stuff (velcro, straps, snaps). You can also check trooperbay, he has a bunch of stuff. The thing to think about with the E6000 glue is it does hold very well but it can also come apart, not sure how the zapagap will do if you need to change a piece out or something. As far as cutting most things can be cut and trimmed, but then may have to have new returns made on them depending on the part. I would start with the arms and legs. The forearms can be trimed a little but do it on both ends, The thighs and biceps can be trimmed on the top, and the calves on the bottom and always with the same curves that they originally come with. The torso try on with the strapping and then go from there. Talk to guys in your local garrison they can be a world of knowledge for you and may be able to give you hands on help. A trooper and myself from my garrison are currently doing that with a new member. Keep posting on here and add pictures, these guys on here have a world or galaxy of knowledge to be able to help you. They did me on my first build. GOOD LUCK!!!