Abstract: This invention relates to high ortho etherified resole resins. The resole resins are prepared by reacting under acidic conditions phenol with formaldehyde in the presence of a divalent electropositive metal. The resole resins are then etherified with an alcohol and dehydrated to less than 1 percent water. The novel high ortho etherified resole resins are useful in coating, bonding and adhesive compositions. Such resoles are readily curable with coreactive resins providing chemical and solvent resistance.