to insure a great application...apply the sealer to cotton ball, dab off any excess onto a paper towel and now dab and roll the cotton ball over the system...reapply more sealer to cotton ball as needed. you should see VERY LITTLE white transfer onto the base...like little puppy dog tracks....that's all you should see. once dry they will turn clear.
you will feel a slight change in the feel of the lace when done. I usually apply two thin coats of sealer, allowing to dry in between. you should not see the sealer at all when finished. always err on the side of caution, better to apply too little than too much, you can always go back and apply more.
sounds like you are taking it slow and not applying too much...good job!!
DebbieS.