I now use a wheeled carry-on with a tote as my purse over the handle. It is much easier when flying. That way I have my essentials: ID, tickets, credit cards, & cash handy ... yet have whatever I want to take with me, like a book, my Nook. and/or handiwork in my tote.
When I have handwork I usually roll it up and put it in a baggie in my tote. The tote goes under the seat in front of me.
ali