Quote Originally Posted by Giantbane View Post
I wouldn't use any tier IV materia unless you are just rolling in gil.
There's always spirit-binding. It may not always net the materia you desire, but it really can help avoid costs (can sell off unwanted ones too). I collected most of my novus materia from spirit-binding along with my friend. Granted, it's not for everyone since there's a fair amount of patience (and luck) involved.