I made some rookie mistakes with the shellac. I try to list them here for others to follow, do not make my mistakes.
1) rubber gloves are a must
2) the first sealer layer is the easy part, no biggie
3) subsequent layers become more tricky: the main thing to keep in mind is that pressure on the surface can be pretty bad - go lightly againts the wood and only apply force on the application pad to squeeze out the solution!
4) I tried bigger and smaller pads: smaller works much better for me: less wasted material in the drying out pad and I am also less likely to push it against the surface too much to damage the already applied shellac layer. I use now an approx 6x12cm textile, this makes it possible to pinch the whole pad to force out the juice without pushing against the surface.
5) Shellac can fill small pores - but more layers are necessary
6) Buy pumice. It is for minor repairs, so I figured/hoped I will not need it - I do.
7) Give time for one side done to cure. When it seems OK for the touch, it can still get damage if you turn it around to work on the other side.
8) waiting for the shellac to cure is frustrating, but well worth it