I am sorry you had such a bad experience at the lqs. I hope you can find another one that will be more receptive to hand quilters. The are some beautiful threads on the market for hand quilters that can make your life easier. The big box stores carry all the run of the mill stuff. I took a hand applique class with a lady from Wisconsin who does the most amazing hand work. She spends hours on her quilts. She uses some really nice threads that she orders online.
I have a longarm business because I could not hand quilt fast enough. I love the look, but I just can't spend the time on it and accomplish much. It took me 2 years to get my daughter's wedding quilt completed. I admire those who do the wonderful handwork. Keep up what you do and don't let anyone put you down for it, even if it is with a bad attitude.