When we opened Capricorn Framing in 2006, we had a clear purpose: conservation framing should be accessible to everyone. It should not be reserved for museums or institutions alone. Artists, collectors, designers, and families preserving meaningful pieces all deserve the highest standards of protection and care.

What we could not have imagined then was where that commitment would take us.

Twenty years later, we are proud to be recognized as a leader in quality preservation framing. Our growth has extended beyond our original studio, and through shared ownership of Walter Adams Framing, we now operate three additional locations in San Francisco. What began as a focused mission has evolved into a broader network of studios grounded in the same values.

Recently, we had the joy of celebrating this milestone with our community at our 20th Anniversary Party. Surrounded by clients, artists, designers, vendors, and longtime collaborators, our showroom felt especially alive. With live music, drinks, and light fare, the evening was both celebratory and reflective — a reminder that our longevity is rooted in relationships.

Conservation Framing As The Foundation

From the very beginning, conservation framing has been the backbone of our business model. It has never been an add-on or an upgrade. It is our standard.

One of the defining projects that shaped us early on was our work with the William Saroyan Foundation. We were contracted to frame approximately 110 works, preparing them for exhibition over the course of a year. Many of these pieces had never been publicly displayed. After completing the framing, we went on to document more than 5,000 works for the Foundation.

That experience reinforced who we are. It challenged us, refined our systems, and solidified our place as a trusted resource for preservation and collections care.

Watching the Industry Evolve

Over the past 20 years, we have seen significant shifts in how people purchase and frame art. There was a time when online framing and disposable art surged in popularity. Convenience became the driving force, and many believed traditional framing studios might fade.

But we have watched that trend change course.

Even the most well-known online framing companies are now opening brick-and-mortar spaces. Clients want to see and feel the materials protecting their art. They want conversations about glazing, mounting techniques, and long-term preservation. They want to invest thoughtfully.

Independent framing studios continue to offer something essential: conservation-grade materials and techniques that protect artwork for generations. That commitment has always set us apart.

Tradition and Innovation Working Together

Honoring traditional techniques does not mean standing still. In many cases, evolving materials have strengthened what we do.

Take glass, for example. Standard glass filters approximately 65 percent of UV rays, which can fade pigments and accelerate paper degradation. Today, we use glazing that filters up to 99 percent of UV light while maintaining remarkable clarity and low reflection. We offer the same level of protection in acrylic products as well.

Advancements like these allow us to uphold museum-level standards while improving the visual experience. Innovation supports our conservation goals rather than replacing them.

Relationships are the Backbone of our Business

If there is one lesson we have learned over twenty years, it is that relationships are the backbone of any small business.

Our team includes not only our employees, but also our vendors and contractors. We build strong, trusting partnerships with the people who support our work. We value honesty, clear communication, strong work ethic, and the desire to build lasting client relationships.

We believe everyone who walks into our space — clients, vendors, collaborators — should feel welcomed and appreciated. Providing realistic timelines, transparent expectations, and thoughtful guidance has helped us maintain confidence and trust in what we do.

That spirit was palpable at our 20th anniversary celebration. The room was filled with people who have shaped our journey in ways large and small. The evening reminded us that twenty years is not simply a measure of time — it is a reflection of shared effort and mutual trust.

Conservation Framing and Looking Ahead 

As we look toward the next chapter of Capricorn Framing, we are energized by continued growth and expansion. By streamlining our companies and strengthening our systems, we believe our model is scalable — allowing us to serve more clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area while maintaining the same conservation standards and personal care.

Twenty years ago, we set out to make conservation framing accessible. Today, that mission remains unchanged.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate, and to the broader community that continues to trust us with meaningful work. The past twenty years have been defined by craftsmanship, integrity, and relationships.

We are excited for what comes next.