Reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of vinyl acetate can be achieved with the use of dithiocarbamate and xanthate derivatives. Various dithiocarbamates and xanthates were synthesized and used in the RAFT polymerization of vinyl acetate and other monomers. Several dithiocarbamates and xanthates are identified as suitable RAFT agents for synthesizing both homo- and block co-polymers of vinyl acetate, and provide varying degrees of control over molecular weight development.