Leaf spring shakel question (lowering)

[red86chevy]

I saw an '86 short bed yesterday that was lowered only in the rear. The truck sat almost level with no rake. What was done was where the leaf spring bolt to the shakles in the rear the shakels were made longer (an inch or two) and the springs bolted to them (higher up). The only thing I saw I did not like was a notch had to be cut in the bed to allow for the taller shakles. Any way I liked the way it looked and thought of doing mine this way. Is this the correct way to do this or does it hurt anything? I am new to this lowering thing and know nothing about it. If it is ok to do this where can I get these taller shakles or do they have to be made? If this way should not be done what can I do to lower only the rear an Inch or two?

Thanks for any information,
Jeremy