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I built a 7 foot tall Paper Mache Mascot for our children's school. Used Wood for the infastructure, chickenwire and covered it with simple flour, water and newspaper paper mache. A family or Rats got into the school and destroyed it. Any suggestions on how to safely rat/mouse-proof paper mache...maybe an additive of some sort, or a sealant? Safely because of the student.
Thank you!
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First of all, don't use flour. Rodents love it. Read the article on 'What paste to use'.
DavidO
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Don't know about ratproofing papier mache, but an easy and humane way to catch rats and mice is to get a large plastic/glass jug/jar, put some food at the bottom, and then prop it up at an angle (I'd put some heavy objects around it so it doesn't roll away either)--the rodents can get in, but because of the smooth sides, they can't get out again. Then, all you have to do in the morning is take your catches and release them outside somewhere (preferably a good distance from the building so they can't find their way back in again).
Or you could get some cats . . .
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LOL Mark, I don't know about Michigan rats but I've seen some of a size down here that would just take jar and all! I would fear for my cat's life. Mr. Spoons is a bit...wimpish...
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+1 on the use of a non-organic adhesive.
Use either methyl cellulose wallpaper adhesive (made from processed wood), or regular white craft glue (PVA, polyvinyl acetate) diluted with water.
Varnish or polyurethane as a sealer should help, too, but not over a food-type adhesive.
Sue
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Thank you for all your suggestions and for the receipe article! 
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