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How can I create a smooth gradient border around a box using pure CSS?

Asked on Sep 23, 2025

Answer

To create a smooth gradient border around a box using pure CSS, you can use the `border-image` property or a combination of `background-clip` and `linear-gradient`. Here's an example using the latter method.

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
    <div class="gradient-border-box">
      Your content here
    </div>

    <style>
      .gradient-border-box {
        padding: 20px;
        border-radius: 10px;
        background: linear-gradient(white, white) padding-box,
                    linear-gradient(to right, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet) border-box;
        border: 5px solid transparent;
      }
    </style>
    <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

This example uses `linear-gradient` to create a rainbow gradient effect around the border.
The `border-radius` property is used to round the corners of the box and the border.
`background-clip: padding-box` ensures the inner background does not overlap the border.
`border: 5px solid transparent` is necessary to define the border width and make the gradient visible.

✅ Answered with CSS best practices.

Ask any question about CSS here... and get an instant response.

How can I create a smooth gradient border around a box using pure CSS?

Asked on Sep 23, 2025

Answer

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