Inventory can be a liability if it's excessive and out of date. Useless machines that are held for production are also liabilities. But, treasured machines or antique machines held as collectibles aren't really liabilities. Collectibles are assets.. Useful machines are assets. Fabrics that form a "collection" meant for creativity, gifting, and donation are assets. They permit me to continue with my hobby without hitting my cash account for months! This time of year, that's really helpful. Otoh, I think we all understand that it isn't a good idea to rack up debt for fabric and machines we won't use.