I ultimately got what I wanted by using 3 coats of tinted amber shellac and 3 coats of tinted water borne varnish. Probably could have used less coats by tinting the material more, but since each coat left streaks and irregularities, I figured more coats would tend to even out better.
I am thinking of putting on a final clear coat; does that seem like a good idea, or do I have too much on already?

Geez, to have been able to spray it!