In this article, we will learn how to apply a border to a background image in Elementor in WordPress. Elementor provides powerful design features that allow you to customize sections, containers, and images easily. One such useful feature is adding a border around a background image to enhance its visual appearance.
Applying a border helps highlight sections, create separation between elements, and improve the overall design. In this guide, we will go through the complete step-by-step process, from creating a section to adding a background image and applying different border styles.
Creating a New Section in Elementor
To begin, you need to create a section where the background image will be applied.
Understanding Section Creation
A section is the main layout element in Elementor that holds content and styling.
Steps to Create a Section
Step 1: Click on the Plus Icon
In the Elementor editor, click on the plus (+) icon in the middle of the screen.

Step 2: Select Layout Type
Choose the layout type. In this case, select Flexbox.

Step 3: Choose Structure
Select a one-direction column structure.
Now your section is ready for customization.

Editing the Section
After creating the section, you need to edit it to apply styling.
Understanding Edit Section Option
Elementor provides a six-dot icon above the section to access editing options.
Steps to Edit Section
Step 1: Click on Six-Dot Icon
Click on the six-dot icon above the section.

Step 2: Open Left Toolbar
The left-side toolbar will appear with three options: Layout, Style, and Advanced.

Adjusting Section Height
Before adding a background image, it is important to set the height of the section.
Importance of Section Height
A proper height ensures that the background image and border are clearly visible.
Steps to Adjust Height
Step 1: Go to Layout Settings
Open the Layout tab in the left toolbar.

Step 2: Increase Height
Adjust the height of the section according to your requirement.

Adding Background Image
Now the next step is to add a background image to the section.
Understanding Background Image
The background image acts as the base layer on which the border will be applied.
Steps to Add Background Image
Step 1: Go to Style Tab
Switch to the Style tab.

Step 2: Select Background Type
Under Background, choose “Normal” and set the type to “Classic.”

Step 3: Choose Image
Click on “Choose Image” and select an image from the media library or upload a new one.

Step 4: Apply Image
Click on “Select” to apply the image.

Adjusting Background Image Display
After adding the image, you need to adjust its display settings.
Improving Image Appearance
Proper display settings ensure the image fits well inside the section.
Steps to Adjust Display
Step 1: Set Display Size
Set the display size to “Cover.”

Step 2: Adjust Position
Select “Custom” position and adjust the Y value to move the image upward if needed.

Applying Border to Background Image
Now comes the main step—adding a border to the background image.
Understanding Border Settings
Border settings are available in the Style tab and allow you to define the outline of the section.
Steps to Apply Border
Step 1: Scroll to Border Section
In the Style tab, scroll down to find the Border settings.

Step 2: Select Border Type
Choose a border type such as:
- Solid
- Double
- Dotted
- Dashed
- Groove

Step 3: Apply Border Style
Once selected, the border will appear around the background image.
Customizing Border Color
You can change the color of the border to match your design.
Steps to Change Border Color
Step 1: Select Color Picker
Click on the border color option.

Step 2: Choose Color
Select a color such as blue or any color of your choice.
Now the border color will be applied.

Adjusting Border Width
Border width controls the thickness of the border.
Steps to Adjust Border Width
Step 1: Increase Width
Increase the border width to make it more visible.

Step 2: Decrease Width
Reduce the width for a thinner border.

Applying Border Radius
You can also round the corners of the border.
Understanding Border Radius
Border radius creates curved edges instead of sharp corners.
Steps to Adjust Border Radius
Step 1: Locate Border Radius Option
Find the border radius setting in the Style tab.

Step 2: Increase Value
Increase the value to create rounded corners.

Exploring Different Border Styles
Elementor provides multiple border styles for customization.
Solid Border
A simple continuous line around the section.
Dotted Border
A border made of dots for a decorative effect.
Dashed Border
A border made of small line segments.
Groove Border
A 3D-style border that adds depth.
Enhancing Design with Borders
Borders can significantly improve the visual appearance of your webpage.
Highlighting Sections
Borders help distinguish one section from another.
Creating Visual Structure
They improve layout organization.
Adding Professional Look
Proper border styling enhances the overall design quality.
Final Output and Result
After completing all the steps, your section will have:
- A background image
- A selected border type
- Customized border color
- Adjusted border width
- Optional rounded corners
This creates a clean and visually appealing section.
Conclusion
Applying a border to a background image in Elementor is a simple yet effective design technique. By creating a section, adding a background image, and customizing border settings, you can enhance the visual appeal of your website.
Elementor provides multiple border styles and customization options, allowing you to create unique and professional designs. By following the steps explained in this article, you can easily apply borders and improve your webpage layout.
