>>14297 (OP)
What do you mean colon? The straps? I think I like the more smooth-looking style better. I think it contrasts nicely with the texture of the bag.
Good luck on the bag. I tried to get into sewing once but didn't have the passion to follow through and actually stick with it. I wood have liked to have made myself a shrimple jacket, but I think it wood have taken me a long time to get that good.
I'd like to see how the bag turns out when you're done.