The resorcinarenes are typically prepared by condensation of resorcinol and an aldehyde in acid solution. This reaction was first described by Adolf von Baeyer who described the condensation of resorcinol and benzaldehyde but was unable to elucidate the nature of the product(s).  The methods have since been refined. Recrystallization typically gives the desired isomer in quite pure form. However, for certain aldehydes, the reaction conditions lead to significant by-products. Alternative condensation conditions have been developed, including the use of Lewis acid catalysts.
A green chemistry procedure uses solvent-free conditions: resorcinol, an aldehyde, and p-toluenesulfonic acid are ground together in a mortar and pestle at low temperature.