Here are some small front panniers I made a long time ago. The fabric is old now and the waterproof coating has peeled off. There is a hole in one of them. And they are 2 different shades of green. But I did commute with these little panniers for many years. I used plastic sheets to stiffen the backs, hence 2 fabric layers on the back to hide the plastic. I believe the plastic sheet was a boot tray I cut up. Also two pieces of aluminum stock inside each bag to attach the hardware (hooks and d-rings) to.
Oil is good, grease is better.
2007 Peter Mooney w/S&S couplers/Terry Butterfly
1993 Bridgestone MB-3/Avocet O2 Air 40W
1980 Columbus Frame with 1970 Campy parts
1954 Raleigh 3-speed/Brooks B72