We came up with such similar ideas!
Yes shaders are really difficult to get down, at a certain point they just seem like black magic! Some people make some seriously complicated things but as soon as it gets too mathy I can't keep up at all! It's a completely different kind of programming due to the limitations!
I also have trouble with focusing on one issue and having to rush at the end, but I'm really glad you managed to get through your first jam!