Help!

[rmoigmeirndbt.livejournal.com]

I'm relatively new at sewing (about 3 years now, and I've been quite productive, but I've been *ENTIRELY* limited to SCA period garb.)

I've gotten so inspired by a lot of the photos I've seen in this community that I've got some ideas now to branch out. I love all the totes and things that ppl are making (even though I really don't do purses much) and I had a thought. I'll need to be moving with my cat to Baltimore in September. (He's moving to B'more, I'm moving to Scotland.) If I take him in the car, most of the trip won't be a problem, but I'm thinking I'll have to fly, and I really *HATE HATE HATE* those plastic boxes w/ bars they call carriers. They feel like prisons to me.

I had the idea that I'll need to replace my computer bag anyway, so I'd like to do a set of two, one for my laptop (big, so I can carry other stuff too) and one for my Archimedes. This seems a reasonably attractive and funtional style: http://www.travelinpets.com/product_info_pages/pet-totes.html

I've never really made a purse, especially not one with so much structure. I'm relatively comfortable on figuring out zippers, clasps, etc, and I know I'll need mesh for airflow and visibility. Does anyone have any pointers on how to make the bags sturdy, even bordering on rigid? Are there any other major concerns I'm missing because I'm a newb at bag-making?


x-posted to several communities: sorry, but I really need the help