I made a nice one out of a pair of jeans. used the legs to make the handles. And with the pockets you have a place for keys, cell phone, change. To close it I used a cloth elastic for your hair, sewed it on the back and used the button on the front to close it. Hope this helps.

Here is a link to one that looks simple but pretty

http://artsycraftybabe.typepad.com/artsycrafty_babe/2007/06/pleated_tote_pa.html

if you do a search there are all kinds of free patterns.
Oddie

Find yourself a paper bag with a handle on it. Cut the bag apart and use it for a pattern.

I bought one from a local crafter that I love. Instead of jeans, she used overalls. The straps formed the handles. You have to turn the overalls so that the front of them is on one side and the back is on the other. Cut the legs off and sew across the bottom 3 times. Viola! I made myself a purse out of some smaller ones and I love it.

Beada

Thanks for all the suggestions

If you know what you are doing, google "jordy bag" - a picture tutorial that started on the crafter website and is incredibly popular.

I'm not so great at following directions, so I go with the 3 rectangle approach to tote bags. One great big rectangle for the front-bottom-back of your bag. Two smaller ones become the sides.

Straps seem like an invitation to be creative for me - you can use fabric or ribbon or pre-purchased handles or anything that catches yoru eye.

I say go nuts!

Here is a link that might be useful: craftfetish blog