(no subject)

[renai.livejournal.com]

I'm planning on making my boyfriend a messenger bag for Christmas, but I have a couple of problems that I'm running in to.

- Most (sturdy) messenger bags are made from canvas. I'm absolutely positive that my sewing machine couldn't handle that. What other options do I have? The fabric needs to be plaid, and sturdy enough that a teenage boy can throw his school stuff in it and not destroy the bag within a month.

- Where can I find material to make sturdy straps online? I can't seem to find anything usable in this tiny town. I want the same sort of straps that you'd find on a Dickies bag. If any of you have any other fun original ideas for straps, I'd love to hear them!

Any info is much appreciated!