Don't understand some of these attitudes from both males and females about what is a decent female and male occupation - this is 2011 and anyone can do what they like and enjoy, whether they are 'straight' or not. We have a mixture of both in the groups that I belong to and nobody cares one way or the other, except for the decent companionship in a craft that we love. One of my neighbours likes to do exquisite petit-point and he sits out on his front verandah doing it - much to the delight of his neighbours, his kids and his wife who all stroll by for a chat and a look (and a cup of coffee if you're there at the right time)
Get him to have a look at the male quilters in this group - one being a well known judge and teacher who is recogniseable over here as well - if that doesn't convince him you may as well accept that he's not interested.