Canvas and image size

[hotdog]

I need to set my canvas to a specific size 31cm x 41cm but need the image on the canvas to be 29cm x 39cm. Is there any way I can set these two independently? If I set the canvas size it seems to by default change the image to the same size and vice versa..... Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Yours truly,
Photoshop noob.

 

[ibclare]

Use the transform tool on the image to make it the specified size.

When you get the transform command made, you will see the pixel and percentage choices across the top. Set your measurements there.

 

[ALB68]

if you have CS6, you can use the new crop tool to expand your canvas by using the handles to stretch the crop beyond the existing border. This way you can create your image using your specified size and then adjust with the crop. Don't believe this is available except in CS6 though.

 

[ibclare]

It's available in 5, and probably quite a few of the CS programs. But I just thought of the simplest solution. Have your image the size you want, then go to image size, select canvas size and enter the dimensions. Duh.

 

[besmirched]

Or, set your canvas size and use guides 2cm in to mark out your picture area.