First shave - used a shavette

So I've been trying to get my hands on a straight razor since June 2009 - and today, while waiting for my 5/8 Halma to arrive in the mail, I thought I would purchase a cheapo shavette (Magic brand) for future travel purposes - and also to practice. My only experience prior to this has been with safety razors.

The first pass went well, without blood. I took very good care of blade angle. Though I had to go over certain parts multiple times to get through the 4 day stubble, which I did reluctantly and carefully.

I nicked myself on the second pass 2 times, and I think it was due to the edge of the DE blade being exposed at the end. Paper-cut like nicks remained that disappeared quickly to my relief. I am thinking I need to cover up that edge near the base of the blade next time, as it was problematic and I had heard it can be annoying.

Any tips with shavettes would be helpful.

If you use your DE for the 1st pass you'll find it's easier to learn proper technique with the straight on the 2nd pass.