I have always made my tote bags with a separate lining. I use junk fabric to quilt the public side of the bag. For a really strong bag I quilt to denim or corduroy. It really makes the tote bag nice and substantial. You can add a label and as many pockets as you desire- I usually make at least one of the pockets with a zipper for security. Adding a lining also lets you attach the straps without any stitching showing on the outside and no raw edges on the straps to worry about! I think if you give it a try, you will see the advantages. I turn the bag right side out through an opening in the side seam of the lining. Sew the side seam together and then top stitch around the top. The topstitching gives you one more opportunity to reinforce the strap attachments and makes a nice finished edge without the lining peeking out.