I've been on the lookout for easy tote bag for a while now and came across the Schlep bag and decided it was time that I widen my sewing horizons (pieced and quilted a few small pieces so far). Here is a link to the free pattern
http://sentimentalstitches.net/free-stuff/schlep-bag/
For a beginner, I thought the instructions were clear, except the lining part challenged me a bit to understand what I was supposed to do. Luckily, a quick search landed this helpful tutorial
http://justsew.com/2009/05/21/so-sew...chlep-bag.html that shows a photo of how to fold the lining, pretty easy once I realized what I needed to do.
I love that I am able to fold the bag in my purse when I go fabric shopping. I really can stuff that thing :lol: