All people I know who are involved with textiles have emotional attachments to objects associated with textiles. It may be something as practical as favourite scissors or our sewing machine. In my case one of my most valued objects is a sewing cabinet made for me by my husband. I have a thing for sewing boxes and the tools that are in them. I do not collect them but if I was in the financial bracket to do so I would do. Here is an article on antique sewing boxes provided by a dealer in boxes.
If you have a special tool or item of value associated with your textile practice drop me an email.
I’m not sure that this is the type of story you wanted but your post inspired me to tell about a few of my favorite things over at http://quiltmommy.com