I agree with the above posts. I have made bags and used either outdoor fabric or upholstery fabric. With the upholstery fabric I don't use the super heavy/bulky kind. Drapery fabric also works well if it is heavy and tightly woven. I line my bags which also gives them a more finished look and adds stability. I use cotton and a lightweight fusible interfacing on the lining. I use the outer fabric for the handles and make the handles long enough that it can be slipped over a shoulder but not so long as you can't carry it with your hands. Pockets are nice addition too for keys and smaller items. I put those inside when I make the lining. If you want some kind of closure on the top you can add a magnetic closure or a flap. I've done both. If you want really strong handles have them wrap all the way around the bag and meet at the bottom. This also gives you the edges for an outside pocket when you stitch the handles up the side of the bag.