Abstract: Insoluble cross-linked homopolymers of vinylpyrrolidone or copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone are prepared by reaction of the soluble homopolymer or copolymer with certain acid chlorides at a temperature between 75.degree. C. and about 140.degree. C., to obtain a precipitate. Alternately, the insoluble product may be prepared by heating a partial amide chloride of a homopolymer or copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone.