Boys?

Actually, I end up being ignored or avoided, but always based on how the women choose to react. It's rare when I ignore the girl first. (I don't think that's ever happened, come to think of it.)

If they're great guys, and honestly your friends, they probably won't ignore you (though I can't say because I'm not them)... That is, unless you start ignoring first, or you happened to be rude to them on the rejection.

Just assure them that you still want to be friends with them, if you make it awkward for them they will be awkward around you ya know? I wouldn't stop talking to you unless my only goal was to date you and once I found that out then I'd probably move on. But if they are your friends then why not continue to be friends?

It's up to you how things will go after you turn them down. If you do it respectfully and with consideration for their feelings, you'll probably be fine. Be prepared to initiate friendly interactions with them a couple of times and have them ignore you or give you the cold shoulder before things settle back down. [Or not, many guys feel relieved to not be totally rejected and will get over it fast].