How to Create a Text Border Using CSS

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By squashlabs, Last Updated: Oct. 6, 2023

How to Create a Text Border Using CSS

Creating a text border using CSS can add visual interest and emphasis to your text. There are several ways to achieve this effect, depending on your desired style and browser compatibility. In this guide, we will explore two common methods for creating a text border using CSS.

Method 1: Using the text-stroke property

One way to create a text border is by using the text-stroke property. This property allows you to specify the color and width of the border around your text. However, it is important to note that the text-stroke property is not supported in all browsers, particularly older versions of Internet Explorer.

To use the text-stroke property, you can apply it to your text using the CSS "text-stroke" property and specify the color and width of the border. Here's an example of how you can achieve a text border using the text-stroke property:

.text-border {
  -webkit-text-stroke: 2px black; /* for Safari/Chrome */
  text-stroke: 2px black; /* for other browsers */
  color: white; /* specify the color of the text */
}

In the example above, we specify a 2-pixel black border around the text using the "text-stroke" property. The color of the text is set to white to create a contrast with the border. You can adjust the width and color of the border to achieve your desired effect.

Related Article: How to Make a Div Vertically Scrollable Using CSS

Method 2: Using the text-shadow property

Another method for creating a text border is by using the text-shadow property. This property allows you to apply multiple shadows to your text, which can be used to create a border effect. The advantage of using the text-shadow property is that it is supported in most modern browsers.

To create a text border using the text-shadow property, you can apply multiple shadows to your text, with each shadow representing a border. Here's an example of how you can achieve a text border using the text-shadow property:

.text-border {
  color: white; /* specify the color of the text */
  text-shadow: -1px -1px 0 black, 1px -1px 0 black, -1px 1px 0 black, 1px 1px 0 black; /* specify the shadows for the border */
}

In the example above, we apply four shadows to the text, each offset by one pixel in different directions. The shadows are set to black to create a border effect. You can adjust the color of the text and the shadows to achieve your desired effect.

Best Practices and Alternative Ideas

Related Article: How to Set Distance Between Flexbox Items in CSS

When creating a text border using CSS, it is important to consider the following best practices:

1. Use contrasting colors: To ensure that the text border stands out, choose colors that provide a good contrast with the background color of your text.

2. Test browser compatibility: Before using the text-stroke property, make sure to test your design in different browsers to ensure that it is rendered correctly. If browser compatibility is a concern, consider using the text-shadow property instead.

3. Experiment with different styles: Don't be afraid to experiment with different border styles, such as dashed or dotted lines, to create unique text borders.

4. Combine with other CSS properties: Text borders can be combined with other CSS properties, such as background colors or gradients, to create more visually appealing designs.

5. Consider accessibility: When using text borders, make sure that they do not negatively impact the readability of your text, especially for users with visual impairments. Test your design with different font sizes and screen resolutions to ensure accessibility.

Overall, creating a text border using CSS can be a simple and effective way to add visual interest to your text. By understanding the different methods available and following best practices, you can create text borders that enhance your design and make your text stand out.

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