Gauging finished necklace length?

[Denali]

Hello, this may be a silly question but is there an easy way to estimate the length of a finished necklace including knots and clasp. I would like a 23" necklace but am guessing at how many loose pearls I would need to buy. Thanks

[Kevin Canning]

do you know what size of pearl you want to use?

[Denali]

7.5-8mm freshies

[pattye]

Often cfw pearls are sold predrilled on a temporary 15-16 inch strands. So probably you would want 1 1/2 strands minimum. Depending on the quality you purchase, there might be a few pearls you wouldn't want to use. Two full strands would give enough pearls for bracelet and earrings, too! Just the thoughts of a "lowly beader," who doesn't always purchase AAA pearls.

My knots average about 1mm each. So 50 knots would add about 2 inches. I can estimate fairly closely, but sometimes need to add or leave off a pearl at the end to get an exact length. Clasps vary quite a bit also, from about 1/2 inch to much longer.