Most of the time I don't care for the look of borders on quilts. I just prefer the look of the pattern right up to the binding. But I can see the use of them, especially to enlarge the quilt if needed. I did make a quilt to gift to a friend a few years ago and ran out of two of the fabrics, so did take what fabric I had and put on a 3 sided border so it would fit her bed. Certainly turned out very nice.