In this study we investigated different types of gelatin with respect to compatibility with a water soluble polymer like polyvinyl alcohol, which is widely used as a component in ink receiving layers. The influence of conditions like concentration, composition, as well as pH level, on the phase behaviour were determined for different gelatin and polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL) types in solutions and in casted films using turbidity measurements and data from microscopic studies. A “compatible” system of PVAL and a chemically modified gelatine was described. Because of the importance of water resistance in ink receiving layers, we additionally focused on the cross-linking process of gelatin and a mixture of gelatin and PVAL with a common hardening agent. Cross-linking efficiency was rheologically determined using different temperatures and hardener concentrations.