Thanks!! So does anyone know the name of the quilted looking red fabric?

My guess is that the red fabric was used for curtains or drapes. The right side finish on it is simulated smocking. I would serge or zigzag the cut edges, then wash & dry it and the lining before cutting out anything. Braiding the cord does sound like a good idea because a single cord can cut into your hand or shoulder. Fray-check is another option for finishing the cord ends, but a few matches cost less. I like to sew with decorator fabric for bags, pillows, vests, etc.

I would cover the cord with a tube of bias fabric- probably in a coordinating fabric. It will give body to the handles and you won't have to worry about the cording wearing out or unraveling.

Or possibly when braiding use a piece of ribbon or non-stretch whatever along with one of the strands. Most likely would keep the stretching down.

Thanks for the great ideas. I'll post pictures of what I make.

What you have is upholstery fabric. I had some just like that, only a different color. FYI: Not washable.

Well it turns out braiding that macrame cord is quite the challenge!! I cut 3 pieces and sewed the ends of them together (a challenge in and of itself!!) Then I hung the cord from my clothesline, braided it and tried to sew the other ends together (another challenge).

It looks ok but I'm afraid the ends are a bit lumpy for my bag. They will be hidden between the outer fabric and the lining but they are still quite lumpy.

Any simple suggestions for me? Am I missing something obvious. Thanks!!

PS. Thanks HillCountryGal for the fabric ID. I had no idea what it was!

Did you sew the ends of the cords flat next to each other? I wouldn't have layered the ends.

I tried to sew them flat next to each other. I did small stitches. When I reached the end, I turned the cord and tried to go back but the 3rd cord would always get out of line. Going backwards didn't work well either. It was much trickier than I thought it would be. I broke a needle trying to sew them laid on top of each other. That was my first attempt. Then I laid them flat.

I agree with MsHeirloom, maybe try covering the macrame with fabric. Don't know anything about that fabric other than it is pretty. I made a tote the other day, will post someday, love making totes!