CSS> How do I..
 

Use an image instead of what the "border" command has built in? Or is there another way to make a border around parts of the forum where you can use an image?
And
What template has control over the category strips ie: putting images on either end?

I'm trying to make my own theme and though I look at how things get done in other themes, I don't want to wind up being accused of plagiarizing some one else's work.
Besides, I don't learn how to next time if I just copy and paste some thing. This is part of a self tutoring exercise. But I will be asking questions from time to time.

this is better asked in the designer forum ... we answer questions like this all the time and also search feature should pull up what you are wanting also.