re: Finish question

The Zinsser shellac is either Seal Coat which is de-waxed or Traditional Finish and Sealer which is waxed. Shellac is relatively easy to apply. Here’s a helpful link from a well known finisher
http://www.woodcentral.com/bparticles/shellac.shtml

I’ve used nitrocellulose spray can lacquer with great success. The coverage issue may be the number of coats applied. Typically about 4 coats will do the job, more if you intend on rubbing it out.

I don’t want to recommend one over the other. It is a personal preference. As stated above my best advice is to use a sample board. Do tests with both to see which has the best result for you