What services do you offer?

Our services include custom picture framing, museum-quality conservation framing, canvas stretching, shadow box framing, custom mirrors, and more. All work is completed on-site in our Palo Alto studio.

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are always welcome during our business hours. However, we recommend booking an appointment to ensure you get dedicated one-on-one time with our designer. Appointments can be booked online at our booking page.

We frame a wide variety of items — original paintings, fine art prints, photography, vintage posters, certificates, diplomas, textiles, jerseys, memorabilia, and more. We also design and build custom framed mirrors. If you're unsure whether your piece can be framed, bring it in and we'll advise you.

How much does custom picture framing cost?

Custom framing pricing depends on the size of the piece, the frame style, matting, and glazing options you choose. We work with a wide range of budgets and will walk you through all your options during your appointment.

How long has Richard Sumner Frames been in business?

We opened our doors in 1972, making us one of the oldest businesses in Palo Alto and the only remaining custom picture framing shop in the downtown area. Over 50 years of experience goes into every frame we build.

Where is Richard Sumner Frames located?

We are located at 628 Emerson Street in downtown Palo Alto, CA 94301. We serve clients throughout the Bay Area, including Atherton, Menlo Park, Los Altos, and San Francisco.

Do you only serve Palo Alto?

No — while our studio is in Palo Alto, we serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We regularly work with clients from Atherton, Menlo Park, Los Altos, and beyond, and offer delivery and installation throughout the region.

Custom picture framing

At Richard Sumner Frames, we design and build custom picture frames that enhance, protect, and complement your artwork, photography, and collectibles. Every piece is thoughtfully crafted in our Palo Alto studio, serving clients across the Bay Area who value quality materials, precision, and timeless design. Whether you’re framing a single artwork or a full collection, we guide you through every step—from design selection to final assembly.

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A close-up of a shelf displaying vintage picture frames and decorative items, with a focus on ornate gold and black frames.

Custom designs for artwork, photography & collectibles

We create custom designs for a wide range of pieces, balancing aesthetics and protection.

Fine art and original paintings
Vintage posters
Photography and prints
Certificates and documents
Textiles and personal keepsakes

Every frame is designed to complement the piece—not overpower it.

Framed poster with the phrase 'L'INSTANT TAITTINGER' and an image of a champagne glass filled with champagne.

Custom design approach

Our process is highly collaborative and we’ll work closely with you to ensure the final result fits your space and vision.

Bring in your artwork and we’ll help you explore framing options in person. Many of our clients visit from Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and throughout the Bay Area for personalized design sessions. We’ll help you choose:

Frame style and finish
Matting and spacing, including fabric wrapped and multiple opening mats
Glazing options (glass, plexiglass, UV protection plexiglass)
Overall presentation and design balance

Whether modern, classic, or traditional, each frame is built to last and enhance your artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready to stop by, go ahead and book an appointment.

Book Appointment

The best frame enhances your artwork without overpowering it. During your appointment, we'll consider the colors, style, and size of your piece, as well as the space where it will be displayed. We guide you through hundreds of frame styles, matting options, and glazing choices to find the ideal combination.
We frame virtually anything — original paintings, fine art prints, vintage posters, photography, certificates, diplomas, textiles, and personal keepsakes. If you're unsure whether your piece can be framed, bring it in and we'll advise you.
A frame is the outer border that surrounds and supports your artwork. A mat is a decorative and protective layer placed between the artwork and the glazing, adding visual breathing room and preventing the piece from touching the glazing. We offer a wide range of mat options, including fabric-wrapped and multiple-opening mats.
Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of the project and current workload. We'll give you a clear timeline when you bring your piece in. Most standard custom framing projects are completed within two weeks.
Yes. We offer several glazing options including regular glass, plexiglass, and UV-protective plexiglass (with or without reflection), which helps shield your artwork from fading caused by sunlight and indoor lighting. We'll recommend the best option based on your piece and where it will be displayed.
Yes. Once your piece is complete, we offer delivery and professional installation throughout Palo Alto and the Bay Area, including Menlo Park, Atherton, and Los Altos.

Ready to stop by?

Visit our Palo Alto shop to explore custom picture framing options and see how we can bring your artwork to life.

Book an Appointment