About Me

My name is Jayne Cain, and I am the founder and creative force behind a handcrafted Afrocentric craft business that has been growing and evolving for over 30 years. What began as a simple labor of love—making beaded bracelets from semi-precious stones for family members—has blossomed into a diverse collection of inspirational, one-of-a-kind handcrafted creations.

In the early years of my journey, I created a line of hand-painted T-shirts called “Sophisticated Ladies and Gents.” From there, my creative path expanded into painting ceramic and pecan resin pins and figurines. Over the years, my work has grown to include cloth dolls, clay and metal pins, sterling silver jewelry, wedding and Kwanzaa accessories, tote bags, men’s ties and bow ties, women’s apparel, quilts, and quilt art for the home.

Every item I create is handcrafted and/or hand-painted, made with care, intention, and love. Because each piece is handmade, no two items are exactly alike—many are limited editions, and some are truly one-of-a-kind, created to be treasured for years to come.

Jazmin’s Playmates & Jazzy’s Cousins Dolls

In 1999, I began creating a line of Afrocentric cloth dolls called “Jazmin’s Playmates,” named after my daughter. Wanting to keep my baby a baby just a little longer, I decided to sew one myself. That first step led to the creation of Kamilah and Imani, two realistic, baby-sized dolls made from microfiber suede, featuring hand-painted faces and synthetic hair.

As time passed and the dolls “grew up,” the line evolved into “Jazzy’s Cousins.” Today, these dolls come in beautiful shades of brown and are dressed in outfits made from authentic African fabrics. Each doll reflects culture, pride, and the beauty of representation.

Jewelry & Textile Creations

My jewelry designs are inspired by my deep love for African culture and history. I use glass, bone, and amber beads, paired with silver charms imported from Ghana and Egypt, to create meaningful wearable art.

My passion for African culture also led me to begin collecting African fabrics. The more I learned about their origins and symbolism, the more my collection grew. That passion naturally turned into sewing, allowing me to transform these textiles into pillows, tote bags, quilts, skirts, jackets, and vests. The fabrics I use are carefully sourced and imported from Ghana, Senegal, and Holland, ensuring authenticity and vibrant storytelling through design.

Teaching, Community & Cultural Engagement

Sharing creativity has always been an important part of my journey. I have taught craft classes to all ages, from kindergarten children to senior citizens. Through a grant awarded to the African Poetry Theatre in Queens, NY, I spent five years teaching craft classes within the New York City Department of Juvenile Justice, working in both secure and non-secure facilities.

In addition, I have worked with NYC Public Schools, including after-school and Saturday CASA programs, summer camps, and senior citizen programs—using art as a tool for expression, healing, and empowerment.

Quilts & Quilt Art

I continue to expand my craft through the creation of quilts and quilt art for the home—quilts designed not only for beds, but also as statement art pieces meant to be displayed and admired. Each quilt is created entirely by hand, stitched with intention, tradition, and love.

Community Presence & Recognition

I am a proud member of Hand Made in America and have actively participated in numerous cultural, arts, and professional events, including:

  • Essence Music Festival

  • Philadelphia Black Doll Show

  • National Council of Negro Women

  • Black Arts Festival

  • Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club

  • Brooklyn Academy of Music – Dance Africa Festival

  • New York State Black and Puerto Rican Congressional Caucus

  • Capital Jazz Festival

  • Congressional Black Caucus

These experiences reflect my ongoing commitment to celebrating culture, creativity, and community through handcrafted art.

My Promise

Every piece I create is made by hand and with love, rooted in culture, and designed to inspire. My hope is that each item you bring into your home becomes something you—and those you share it with—will cherish for many years.