What I do is just cut off a "tube" with the prettiest part of the bag, adding about three inches at the bottom edge for the bottom of the tote. I sew the base closed, using top stitch thread and a large needle, then I box the bottom
http://www.lazygirldesigns.com/blog/...rners-of-a-bag
I put duct tape over the seams to reinforce it and finish the seam. Then I just fold the top edge over and sew twill tape around the inside to finish the seam and add handles. Since you cut a tube, there are no side seams. This makes a really quick bag, and gives you a feel for how to handle the material.