PurposeIn this study, organo clay modified alkyd resins were synthesised and these modified alkyd resins were cured with different ratios of phenol formaldehyde resin. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the physical and chemical properties of the films and thermal behaviours of the resins.Design/methodology/approachAlkyds formulated to have an oil content of 40 percent were prepared with phthalic anhydride (PA), glycerine (G), coconut oil fatty acid (COFA), dipropylene glycol (DPG) and organo clay. “K alkyd constant system” was used for the formulation calculations of the alkyd resins. Alkyd resins were blended with 30 percent of a phenol–formaldehyde. The films of the alkyd–phenol formaldehyde (A‐PF) resins were prepared from 60 percent solid content xylene solutions by using 50 μm applicators. After the films were cured at 150°C for 2 h in an oven, properties of the films were determined.FindingsThe effect of organo clay addition on the film properties such as drying degree, hardness, adhesion strength, impact resistance, water, acid, alkaline, solvent resistance and thermal behaviours of the resins were investigated. The addition of organo clay has a positive effect on the physical and chemical film properties for phenol formaldehyde resin.Originality/valueThe paper reports on a study in which organo clay modified A‐PF resins for manufacturing of industrial baking enamels were synthesised for the first time.