Hi Chris! I worked in a quilt shop for a few years and to be honest with you I enjoyed the men quilters when they came in. Men are some of the best quilters out there - you look at patterns differently and can usually come up with an easier way to do it and the color combinations that men use are usually dynamic. Stick with it and find a "friendly" store to work with....they will enjoy your company when they get to know you I'm sure.