^Tra-DI-tion, my good fellow, we do it cause it was good enough for our forefathers!
...once you start using it you'll be hooked, too!
BTW, note to mkeller234: shellac always adds some amount of amber tint, but if you want the "clearest" shellac, look for a de-waxed Super Blonde (you'll have to make your own "cut" with denatured alcohol).