Theresa Arzadon-Labajo

How to create an off-center desktop wallpaper

Posted by Theresa Arzadon-Labajo (tarzadon) on Apr 13 2011
Tech Stuff >> Windows
A user wanted to set a wallpaper on her desktop, but didn't want it taking up the whole screen, nor did she want it centered because she does not like symmetry.
Windows does not allow you to place your wallpaper in the position of your choice, so to get around this, I created a faux desktop.
I chose Gimp, but you can choose whatever application you like (eg. Photoshop).
  • First, I found out what resolution the user's screen was set to.  I right-clicked on the Desktop, chose Properties, then Settings and made a note of what was set under "Screen Resolution".
  • Then, I opened up Gimp. I created a New Document and set the proportions to be the same as the screen resolution.
  • I used the Paint Fill Bucket tool to color the background.  The user chose what color she wanted.
  • Next, I inserted the photograph she wanted as her wallpaper.  I moved it around until she was satisfied with the placement.
  • Finally, I saved the document.
  • I went into Properties->Desktop->Browse. Located the document that I just created, then click OK.
  • There you go!  An off-center wallpaper.

Last changed: Feb 27 2020 at 4:09 PM

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