Pottery Barn Knockoff Water Hyacinth Tray

2 Materials
$3
30 Minutes
Easy

I almost spent $50 on a serving tray. Instead, I went to Goodwill and found an almost identical water hyacinth tray (it's a type of plant) used in baskets and other accessories. The lesson in this Knockoff is to fall in love with a popular brand and then enjoy the thrill of the search for the knockoff. This knockoff cost me $3.00.

The tip on this project was simple. Because I had my eye on (drooling) the Pottery Barn online and print materials I knew a knockoff opportunity when I found it on the shelf at Goodwill.

That's the only reason I found this Pottery Barn knockoff tray. I had my eye on it in the catalog and online and it was top of mind! Boom!


I walked into Goodwill and there it was ready for my kitchen and all my bottles of olive oils from Homegoods.

The first thing I did to prep my tray was to give it a good shake over the sink. Look at the condition of the bottom of the tray? I am happy to report no surprises with the shake.

I followed this with a good rinse and then a soapy rinse to get any dirt or debris.

I followed that up with Lysol and then my new favorite all-purpose cleaner Castile soap.

Just a good old fashion scrub with a utility brush.

I propped the basket on the edge of my sink so any debris or dust would just fall in the sink.

I placed a slate serving board on the bottom of the tray to give a bit of a sturdy base for my olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Did I mention this knockoff tray cost me $3.00?! I almost spent $50. Well not almost because I would not spend that much money on a tray.

But look at the weave and the handles. They are in perfect condition.

And, the best part is this knockoff tray solved a problem for me and my endless collection of vinegar and spices. The Pottery Barn knockoff tray from Goodwill was under $5.00, contained my mess and looks great in my kitchen! I love the find! So before you toss those glossy catalogs take a look! You never know what you might find at Goodwill.


I can't wait to find a new knockoff!

Thank you for stopping by today! Please leave a comment or check out my other one hour projects below! Laura

Suggested materials:
  • Tray   (Goodwill)
  • Soap and Water
  • Castile Soap   (Sprouts)
Everyday Edits
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3 of 4 questions
  • Neva Dew Neva Dew on Jan 16, 2021

    I agree that it was wise to not overspend on the Pottery Barn item. But the thought crossed my mind as I read the post: "Does Pottery Barn consider the references to them a slap in the face or free advertising?" I counted at least 5-6 mentions of their name in the post, including the pics.

  • Em Em on Jan 16, 2021

    You bought a Goodwill tray and washed it?

  • Shuganne Shuganne on Jan 16, 2021

    I learned something new today: water hyacinths are used for weaving. (I had to Google it! But while I was on Google I went to Pottery Barn and saw what I think is your inspiration, for $49 and change. I like the handles on yours better. They are recessed and they look sturdier. What a great find for you! I was a bit surprized at the price. What makes it so expensive? Because water hyacinth is so sturdy and highly valued? Because it's handmade? Or because Pottery Barn can command that kind of price?


    Thanks for the fun trek and the lesson!

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  • FdLNana FdLNana on Jan 16, 2021

    We found a basket like that at St. Vinnie’s. But lined the bottom with wine corks! Really cute and a fun reminder of all the wineries we’ve visited.

  • Michelle Dodson Michelle Dodson on Jan 16, 2021

    I love Goodwill! I found a glass & chrome K-Cup holder for $4.95, in like-new condition. It was priced so low (they're $35 minimum on Amazon) because no one could figure out what it was!

    • Everyday Edits Everyday Edits on Jan 17, 2021

      Totally agree! That's what I love about repurposing someone else's stuff! laura

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