What's the simplest way to wrap extruded text around a cylinder? What's the simplest way to wrap extruded text around a cylinder that has a specific radius (for example, the label on a can of baked beans)?

I've tried using the Simple Deform modifier, but that (a) doesn't allow you to choose a radius and (b) requires the text to be converted to a curve.

I'm trying to model a cylinder with radius of 30, which has a line of embossed text that runs around the curved side, facing outward.

Thanks!
Try using a Curve modifier.


Add curve circle (ShiftA> Curve Circle) and set the radius as desired in the Redo menu (at the bottom of the Tool Shelf):


Add the text object (ShiftA> Text) and type in your text (Tab> Edit mode):


Add a curve modifier to the text object in Properties > Modifiers, and set the Object to be your curve circle:


Rotate the text object 90 degrees on the X axis (RX90) and then scale by -1 again on the X (SX-1):

 
Increase the Extrude value in Properties > Text > Geometry to give the text some thickness:



Optionally increase the Depth and Resolution values for Bevel to round the edges a bit.


Result: