I picked up crocheting and knitting a few years back. One of the best resources I found was the local library, and the Crocheting for Dummies book. They explain a lot about all the different abbreviations. The book isn't too expensive, and a lot of used book stores have some nice books that will detail the different stitches. The books also have some good patterns in them. There are lots of patterns for bags at http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/bags_totes_purses.php. Good luck with your bag!