Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), fully or partially hydrolyzed, was reacted with D,L-lactic acid and glycolic acid in different conditions to synthesize polymers with pendant lactate and glycolate groups. Various degrees of grafting were obtained. H-1-and C-13-NMR analysis as well as thermal and mechanical methods were used to characterize the polymers. Such grafts lead to polymers with lower glass transition temperature, therefor enhancing the polymers solubility in cold water (10 degreesC) and improving flexibility and elasticity as well as tear resistance.