How to Press Fallout DTF Transfer on Drawstring Bag

Make the perfect Fallout inspired Bottle and Cappy Drawstring Bag with a DTF transfer and a heat press!

If you’re a craft lover, small business owner, or simply someone who enjoys fun DIY projects, customizing tote bags and drawstring bags with DTF prints is a good idea for adding a personalized touch to ordinary bags. 

Today I’m sharing how I made a custom drawstring bag featuring Bottle and Cappy from Fallout using a high-detail custom transfer printed by Ninja Transfer on one of their 10-foot gang sheets. 

This technique is an ideal solution for anyone looking to get professional results, vibrant designs, and amazing quality prints—even with a simple handheld press or Cricut EasyPress.

Whether you’re creating event swag, doing business branding, testing creative ideas, or adding a unique style to your gear, learning to use DTF transfers opens the door to unlimited colors, wide print options, and beautiful results you can rely on.

Let's get started!

Supplies Needed for Bottle & Cappy Fallout Drawstring Bag

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• Port Authority BG621 Beach Wash ™ Cinch Pack (Shirt Space Tote Bag Blanks)
• Custom DTF transfer (from Ninja Transfer printed on a 10ft gang sheet)
• Heat press or Cricut EasyPress (even basic heat presses work)
• Parchment paper or teflon cover sheet
• A flat pressing surface
• Your desired design file (various file types accepted—PNG recommended)

This project works for a variety of bag types, from simple cotton totes to canvas backpacks and pouches.

First Step: Preparing Your Artwork

Your file format and layout matter for best results. 

I got mine from Ninja Transfers, they accept multiple file types, but PNG with transparency gives the cleanest edges and maintains vibrant colors in your full color design.

DTF Apparel Printers are commonplace these days, so you can find prints on Etsy or even buy an apparel printer yourself! INKSONIC

Tips for prepping your artwork:

• Ensure the longest side of your design is sized to fit your bag.
• Check for fine lines and small details—DTF handles them beautifully.
• For minimalist design pieces, leave plenty of negative space for a clean look.
• Upload your artwork to Ninja Transfer’s gang sheet builder to make the most of space and get more custom dtf transfers per order.

Heat Press Settings for DTF Transfers

Every company has slightly different heat press settings, but Ninja Transfer provides clear instructions for the best settings and temperature range.

Typical Ninja Transfer settings:

• Temperature: Lower temperatures around 285°F–305°F
• Press Time: 12–15 seconds
• Pressure: Medium, even pressure
• Peel Type: Hot peel instructions or cold peel, depending on the batch

My transfer had hot peel instructions, so I peeled immediately after pressing.

How to Press DTF Transfers Onto Tote Bags

STEP 1: Pre-press the Bag

Before applying anything, pre-press your bag for 5 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles. This ensures great quality adhesion.

STEP 2: Position the Transfer

Lay the bag flat and place your full-color image transfer exactly where you want it. Use heat-proof tape if needed.

STEP 3: Cover With Parchment or Teflon

Use parchment paper or a teflon cover sheet to protect the transfer during pressing.

STEP 4: Press DTF Transfers

Using your EasyPress or heat press:

Apply heat at the standard setting listed in the instructions.

Use firm, even pressure for the best bond.

DTF is known for its easy application, even on textured fabrics.

STEP 5: Hot Peel / Cold Peel

Follow the peel type carefully. Mine was a hot peel, so I removed the carrier sheet immediately.

STEP 6: Second Press for Deeper Colors

A second press with parchment paper helps lock in deeper colors and enhances durability—especially helpful for bags that will see heavy use.

Why DTF Printing Works So Well for Bag Customization

DTF printing (Direct-to-Film) is powerful for bag customization needs because it uses dtf inks, an adhesive powder, and a heat-pressed transfer to create a full-color image with bright colors, fine lines, and detailed designs—even on textured fabrics like canvas. Unlike screen printing, DTF allows for high detail artwork, vivid color, and lower temperatures, making it perfect for canvas tote bags and drawstring bags.

More Fun Ways to Use DTF Transfers

If you’re exploring more creative ideas, try using DTF for:

• Water bottles stickers
• Event swag
• Business branding
• Tote bags
• Personalized pouches
• Team merch
• Gift bags
• Sticker packs
• Travel organizers

DTF works on virtually anything made of fabric and is perfect for selling handmade goods or elevating your product line.

When you buy custom DTF transfers from Ninja Transfer, you also get:

• Exceptional quality prints
• Fast turnaround
• Free shipping
• A loyalty program with exclusive bonuses
• Access to a gang sheet builder for arranging multiple designs on one sheet
• For makers and shop owners who want the highest quality transfers at competitive prices, Ninja Transfer is a great partner.

Why I Love Using Ninja Transfer for DTF Prints

Working with Ninja Transfer has been incredibly smooth. Their prints offer:

• Vibrant prints with vivid color
• Exceptional quality and amazing quality prints
• Ability to handle high detail artwork and detailed designs
• Full-color image capability with unlimited colors
• A fast turnaround—great for a small business owner filling orders
• A helpful loyalty program
• Optional free shipping
• A phone number and support line for questions
• Their DTF gang sheets, custom transfer options, and wide temperature range make them the best solution for beginners and pros alike.

Final Washing & Care Instructions

For longest lasting care results:

• Wait 24 hours before your first wash.
• Turn the bag inside out for cleaning.
• Use a gentle cycle and cold water.
• Air dry to preserve vibrant designs.

This will keep your transfer looking bold and clean, even with regular heavy use.

That's it!

DTF printing is truly one of the best results you can get for fabric crafts—from brilliant vibrant colors to clean, durable lines. Using high quality DTF transfers from Ninja Transfer on canvas bags gives you professional results without needing advanced equipment.

Whether you’re personalizing gifts, adding flair to your craft booth, or looking for an ideal solution for your small business, DTF is a powerful way to bring a personal touch and exceptional quality to every project.

If you’ve been curious about trying DTF on tote bags or drawstring bags, consider this your sign—grab a gang sheet, set your heat transfer tools up, and enjoy beautiful results every time.

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