This article describes the physicochemical (mechanical and swelling) and morphological characterization of poly(acrylamide) and methylcellulose (PAAm-MC) hydrogels synthesized with different formulations by the free radical polymerization method. The structure-property relationship of the PAAm-MC hydrogels is very important for application of these materials in different fields. Results showed that the properties of the PAAm-MC hydrogels can be controlled by varying the acrylamide (AAm) and N',N-methylene-bis-acrylamide (MBAAm) concentrations and methylcellulose (MC) content. Increase of AAm and MBAAm concentrations causes a pronounced decrease in swelling degree (SD) values and porosity, and an increase in mechanical properties. Increasing the MC concentration caused an increase in SD values and porosity, but decrease in maximum load and modulus of elasticity because of the increase in the hydrogel hydrophilicity due to incorporation of hydroxyl groups from MC chains. PAAm-MC hydrogels are excellent candidates for several applications, such as matrices for cell transplantation, controlled release (agrochemicals and drugs), tissue repair and regeneration. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 49:2467-2474, 2009. (C) 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers