Sol-gel resins can be prepared using one or two-step processes to produce small granules or pellets of resin that are easy to handle. The methods include agitating phenolic compounds and aldehydes in the presence of a catalyst and a solvent. The reactants are brought together over a period of time to avoid an undesirable buildup of heat within the reaction mass. Condensation of the material continues under agitation sufficient to knead the material as it gels. During this gelation, the material begins to form into smaller parts until particles, the shape of granules, are produced. The condensation continues to the degree that the material is no longer capable of sintering during packaging and storage. The material thus made can be easily discharged, packaged, portioned, and further processed.