DIsk Utility, encrypted disk image

I cannot create an encrypted disk image. I have searched through the discussion forums here but have not found an answer. After I select the name, location, image format, encryption and I hit save, I get an error that says "Unable to create '[file name].dmg'. (Resource busy)". I've tried different locations, image format and encryption, but I keep getting the same message. Any ideas what the problem is and how I can fix it? Thanks.
NB: I want to create the disk image so that I can encrypt a few files with sensitive information. I do not want to use filevault, as I understand that it has downsides (e.g., free space needed to turn on and off, and backup with TM).

1. Open the Disk Utility application. (If you don't know where it is, search for it in the spotlight.)
2. At the top of the Disk Utility window, you will see several icons. Click on the one labeled "New Image". Before you do this, make sure that none of the drives on the left column (including "Macintosh HD") are selected.
3. A new window opens. It asks you for the name you want to give the new disk, and where you want to save it to (you can choose to save it on the desktop). It will also ask you for the volume size of the new disk (the default setting is 100MB, but you can give it any size you want). It also asks you for the volume format, encryption (128- or 256-bit; 128 should be enough, unless you want to make it more secure, but compromise a bit of speed), partition (there is no need to partition; in fact, many recommend no partition at all), and image format (if you plan to frequently add and delete files on your encrypted disk, "sparse bundle disk image" is recommended".
4. Click "create". It will ask you to create a password for your disk image.
5. The new disk image should appear on your desktop (or other destination you chose). Double-click on the image to open it. It will ask you for your password. Enter the password you selected. You can choose to save the password on your keychain. That defeats the purpose of encrypting the disk image, since anyone who gains access to your computer will not have to enter the password to open the disk image and see its contents.
I hope this step-by-step guide helps you. Let me know if something is not clear or if I got something wrong.

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