bordures

Bordures refers to decorative borders or edges applied to a wide range of objects to delineate their limits or provide embellishment. The term derives from the French bordure and is used in English mainly in specialized fields such as heraldry, textiles, book arts, and architecture. Bordures can serve a functional finish or be purely ornamental.

In heraldry, a bordure is a border that surrounds the shield. It is typically drawn in a tincture different from the field and may be plain or patterned. Common edge forms include engrailed, indented, wavy, and nebuly, among others. The bordure can influence the overall balance and symbolism of the arms.

In textiles, garment making, embroidery, and decorative arts, bordures are edging bands along hems, cuffs, or seams. They may be woven, embroidered, or appliquéd and often carry motifs that echo the main design. Manuscripts and book bindings also use bordures to frame miniature scenes, margins, or pages, providing visual separation and added ornament.

In architecture, graphic design, and maps, bordures appear as framed borders around panels, friezes, or illustrations, and as margins on printed sheets or maps. They help organize space and contribute to the overall aesthetic.

The plural bordures is standard when discussing multiple examples; in English usage, bordure (singular) is the common term for a single border in many contexts.