Geez, sorry bout your iron, right when you were trying to have a sewing night. I guess i am thriftier, and have maybe just had "luck" with irons? I've never had a new one, i don't think i'd like the auto shut off feature on them. I've only ever used thrift store irons, and over the years, each one has lasted me over 10 years. But my iron probably doesnt get as much use as some irons maybe. When i'm at my sewing machine, all seams get finger pressed either with my thumb nail lol, or the end of a spoon, and blocks dont get pressed until theyre complete, then they get pressed and squared up. I think if i was going to buy a new iron, i would go for walmart, and go for the cheapest, but thats just me. Less features, less to go wrong, and i know with walmart, i can take something back five years later, they dont care, they will take anything back lol. But really, if the more expensive one will be less headaches for you, then i think it is absolutely worth it :)