To add edges, effectively a border, around an image in Photoshop, you primarily use the Canvas Size feature. Here's how:
-
Choose Image > Canvas Size: Go to the "Image" menu and select "Canvas Size". This will open the Canvas Size dialog box.
-
Enable Relative: Make sure the "Relative" checkbox is selected. This ensures you're adding to the existing canvas size, not setting an absolute size.
-
Enter Pixel Values: Type the number of pixels you want to add around the image in the width and height fields. Remember that the amount you enter will be split between the respective edges. For example, entering "200" in both width and height will add a 100-pixel border to each side.
-
Set the Anchor: The "Anchor" setting determines where the original image is positioned within the new, larger canvas. For a uniform border, ensure the Anchor is set to the center square. This will center the image.
-
Click OK: Click "OK" to apply the changes. This will add the border around your image.
Important Considerations:
-
Background Color: The added area (the border) will be filled with the current background color in Photoshop. Make sure your desired background color is selected before you increase the canvas size. You can change the background color using the Color Picker.
-
Alternative Method using Stroke: While "Canvas Size" is the most direct method, you could also create a border using the "Stroke" layer style. This involves creating a new layer, making it transparent, and applying a stroke with the desired color, size, and position (inside, center, outside). However, the Canvas Size method is generally more efficient for simply adding a uniform edge.
-
Using the Crop Tool: You can also use the Crop Tool to add a border. First, expand the crop area beyond the image boundaries, then press Enter to commit the changes. This also fills the newly added area with the background color.
