Jim Callender is the founder of Oceanic Woodstore, a woodworking business which produces unique, one-off furniture from reclaimed wood and resin art.
He also runs creative classes from his studio at Newhaven Enterprise Centre where he teaches people how to create seascape coasters, coffee tables and more.
We caught up with Jim to hear how funding from Newhaven Enterprise Zone supported his efforts to make his business more sustainable, what inspires his artwork, and why he chose to base Oceanic Woodstore in Newhaven.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us more about Oceanic Woodstore?
I’m Jim Callender, the founder of Oceanic Woodstore.
We’re a creative woodworking and resin art studio based at Newhaven Enterprise Centre, where we make a range of handmade furniture, home décor and gifts from resin river tables and coffee tables, through to oak chopping boards, serving boards, shelves and our bestselling oak doorstops.
What inspired you to start your business?
I’ve always enjoyed making things. Like many people, I started off making products for myself and friends before I gradually realised there was a demand for handmade pieces with real character and quality.
When I first started, I honestly didn’t know how much there was to learn. Looking back at some of the early work, we’ve come a long way. Every year we’ve improved our skills, our equipment and our workshop. What keeps me motivated is creating pieces that people genuinely love and keep in their homes for years.
What are some of the most unique products you make?
The resin river tables are probably the most eye-catching pieces we create. Every piece of timber is different, so no two tables are ever the same.
We also make products using reclaimed and locally sourced timber, which gives each piece its own story. One day we might be making a bespoke dining table and the next we’re creating a small batch of chopping boards or serving paddles.
Our oak doorstops are surprisingly one of our bestselling products. They’re simple, practical and built to last.
What sorts of events do you run in the community? How can people in Newhaven get involved in what you do?
We regularly run resin art classes from our workshop at Newhaven Enterprise Centre.
People come along with little or no experience and leave with something they’ve made themselves. It’s a great way to spend a few hours being creative and learning a new skill.
We’re always adding new classes and ideas, so the best way to get involved is to follow us online or keep an eye on upcoming events.
Why did you choose Newhaven as a base for your business?
Moving to Newhaven Enterprise Centre was one of the best decisions we’ve made.
The workshop itself is fantastic, but what has really stood out is the business community. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive.
From a practical point of view, it’s also a great location. We can have materials delivered directly to the workshop and shop products all over the UK from here.
Has working in Newhaven inspired or influenced any of the furniture and art you make?
Absolutely – being so close to the sea has a huge influence on what we do. A lot of our resin work is inspired by the Sussex coastline, the colours of the sea and the natural landscape around us.
Even the name Oceanic Woodstore comes from that connection to the coast.
How is the creative scene in Newhaven changing?
It feels like there’s a real energy building. More creative businesses are moving into the area, more people are investing in their ideas and there’s a growing sense that Newhaven is becoming a place where independent businesses can thrive.
There’s still plenty of work to do, but the direction of travel feels positive.
What role has Newhaven Enterprise Zone played in supporting Oceanic Woodstore?
The Enterprise Zone has been hugely supportive. The team helped us access funding, offered advice throughout the application process and made what could have been a complicated process much easier.
For a small business owner who’s usually juggling ten things at once, the support makes a real difference.
What did you use your Low Carbon Investment grant from Newhaven Enterprise Zone towards?
The funding helped us invest in more energy efficient workshop equipment and improved air filtration systems.
As a woodworking business, dust extraction and air quality are incredibly important. The improvements have made the workshop a healthier, safer and more sustainable place to work.
Do you have a favourite place to visit in Newhaven that you would recommend to visitors?
I enjoy walking along the riverside as well as the West Quay. The views across the river, the boats and the coastline remind you why this part of Sussex is such a special place.
What would you like Newhaven to look like in 10 years’ time?
I’d love to see Newhaven become known as a destination for independent businesses, creativity and entrepreneurship, and a place where people choose to visit, work and invest because there’s a strong local community and a thriving business scene.
The foundations are already being put in place, which is exciting to see.
What else would you like Newhaven Enterprise Zone to spend its funding on in the town?
I’d like to see continued investment in supporting small businesses, creative industries and skills development. The more opportunities there are for people to learn, start businesses and grow existing ones, the stronger the local economy becomes.
Supporting independent businesses creates jobs, attracts visitors and helps build a town that people are proud to be a part of.
