I have been using the fold up shopping bag pattern from Crafty Patti. Her tute is easy to follow and produces a nicely made, compact bag. She recommends using a meter of fabric, but you can easily get away with about 2/3 of a yard - depending on how you cut out the little pocket. I found that a good quality quilters cotton is surprisingly durable.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0f3NhnMUh0. If the link doesn't work, look for her channel on you tube.
Diane