An Alternative
My sewing alter ego knew she was dying and had enough time to specify what she wanted done with her sewing/craft room and all its contents as well as how she wanted it done. She named me as the person to do the project and project it has been.
Machines and associated equipment went to people who were learning to sew and needed the next step in machines. Particularly to students. If there was a cabinet for the machine, that went along. Fabrics and threads went to sewers and quilters in boxes, bags, associated plastic cabinets and book cases. Unfinished quilt tops/quilts went to quilters who would finish them and gift them to charities. Dyes, dying equipment , and so on went to fabric artists. For a few months, patterns and tools which were not machine specific were up for grabs at her guild meetings. Quilting/sewing related books, magazines, etc. went to guild meetings for a while. And whatever was still left went to a charitable thrift store and did double giving: $ for the charity and goodies for a sewer.
After her death, her family helped move the stuff from her home to mine, taking almost a day. My house looked like a very poorly run but very complete store. Because my friend had time to plan, I had pretty much figured out what went where and had made a specific list of to whom. Her family was very helpful with making that list. I contacted the people and places on the list and a good deal of it went promptly.
There are still some UFOs I couldn't part with - one made, I think, by her grandmother. Hand sewn. Not technically perfect. My machine and I put the last few squares on it. (My handwork is ghastly but my sewing machine and I are a decent pairing.) I cannot decide what to do from here. Probably stabilize it, make a loop, and find a wall for it. Not especially beautiful but it meant a great deal to her and, thusly, to me.
Long story and I hope it helps. Losing her was miserable but most days I see something positive she caused to happen in a sewer's life. Bright spot. She and I often "quilt" together. Another bright spot.
Best wishes on creating your own bright spots.