To make a sweater shorter without cutting it, you can try the following methods:
Folding and tucking: Start by putting on the sweater and identifying how much shorter you want it to be. Then, fold the excess fabric upwards from the bottom hem and tuck it into the waistband or the inside of the sweater. This technique works well if the fabric is not too bulky.
Sewing: If you have basic sewing skills, you can use a needle and thread or a sewing machine to alter the length of the sweater. Carefully measure the desired length and mark it on the sweater. Then, using a straight stitch, sew a new hemline along the marked area. Be sure to try the sweater on before sewing to ensure the desired length is achieved.
Ruching or gathering: Another option is to create a gathered effect to shorten the sweater. Using a needle and thread, make small running stitches along the desired length, leaving long thread tails at both ends. Once the stitches are in place, gently pull the thread tails to gather the fabric and create a ruched effect. Secure the thread tightly to hold the gathers in place.
Using elastic: If you prefer a more adjustable method, you can add elastic to the waistband or hemline of the sweater. Measure the desired length and cut a piece of elastic slightly shorter than that measurement. Attach the elastic to the inside of the sweater using a zigzag stitch, stretching it as you sew to create a gathered effect.