A couple of issues with this idea have been brought to my attention that some may like to hear.

The weight of the material is about 6 oz. single ply. To make it double ply like the actual shorts would bring the weight to 12 oz. but to do this we have to deal with the next two issues.

The material is stretchy which is why it is perfect for athletic shorts.

The material will slip easily when rubbed across itself, another positive for athletic shorts.

I don't know if pining the heck oout of the cloth before sewing would help with any of these issues.

One great positive with this material is that it does not require ironing. I've wadded up my shorts and stuffed them in a backpack for days , pulled them out and not a wrinkle in sight. These are no maintenance shorts.