I was going to suggest Alder Stream, but see that you already found it. Jane Barron makes some very nice packs, decently priced even with the leather options, and is willing to work with you on changes or additions. She has built two for me, and I am very pleased with them.
I bought one of the LL Bean waxed cotton Continental Rucksacks (second-hand for a fair price), and find it WAY too heavy, and not built like I would expect a functional waxed-cotton pack to be built. For example, it is lined with another fabric, adding to the weight but not the utility, and in some places in the pockets, the cotton (unwaxed) liner is used in places that will allow water right into the pack. I really expected something I could use in foul weather, but this pack is not it.
Hope this helps!
Regan