I understand your issue. As a nurse, I've worked with many a "male nurse" who faces the same thing. You know, if you're male and a nurse, you must be gay, or you took care of your dying mother as a child and now want to save the world, or (fill in cliche here).
Well, let me tell you, if I were 85 with a broken hip, I'd much rather have a 6' strapping male pick me up than a 5'nothing petite female!
And while we're ranting, why is a female nurse a "nurse" and a male nurse a "male nurse" anyway. Even actors have given up the "actress" schtick so why can't we all just be equal "nurses?"
Same goes with quilters. It shouldn't matter if you're male or female, you deserve respect when you're in their store, so if you don't get it, point it out. The sales PERSON will learn a thing or two, and you'll get better service next time.
It's when we get defensive, or retreat, or even angry that we lose our credibility. Stand up and be counted, and yes, you can change the world.
Ok, I feel better now.