Thanks to both!! I think I bumped into that tute about shortening the jeans a while ago. I think I had that in the back of my mind when I thought up this scheme of mine. Now I'll go back and rewatch it.
Yes, NJ quilter, I'd better be careful about tapering too. I also think I'd better wash them first to see if there is any shrinkage. I'm taking my time on this because they are so darn cute and I don't want to wreck them.