Bag pattern ideas?

[ciruelita]

I'm looking for a knitted version of, like a gardening-tool bag, or a grooming apron/tote --- you know, sort of pockets on the outside and kind of a flat bottom or a fold-up type deal.

I've seen little bags and things and bags with compartments on the inside, but I want this to be on the outside. It can hang or sit, I think. (I know, I'm being SO clear, *L*)

I was even thinking about making a simple tote shape, then knitting some rectangles and sewing them on to it.

Any ideas/opinions? The overall 'look' needs to be utilitarian[read: manly] as it's meant for a gift for an older man.