favorite iron

I'm a beginner, and recently finding my iron isn't meeting my sewing needs. It take too long to heat up and the steam has to be on cotton setting. I'm on a search for the perfect iron and would appreciate any suggestions or feedback. What's your favorite iron?

thank you,
Sandra

Ooh, ooh!!  I'll be watching this thread like a hawk as my Black&Decker wedding present iron is finally giving up.  It no longer shuts off without being unplugged and makes strange clicking noises if left alone while plugged in... (Twilight Zone music).

Looking forward to some great iron advice!

Sara

Hands down, Rowenta!  Have been using mine for almost 20 years and the sole plate is still clean as a whistle.  They're expensive, but worth every penny.  A quality product. 

Here's a link to an earlier thread from the Flickr Pool:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/sewmamagroup/discuss/72157604120731807/

I have a Rowenta that I use for most of my ironing that I love. I would buy the best you can afford.
But my greatest deal was finding a cordless Oreck for $5.00 at a flea market. I love having that next to my sewing machine for quick seam pressing as I sew!

That is a good deal.  I never thought of putting a cordless next to my machine.  That is such a good idea. Right now I'm having to go up and down stairs to iron.  It is good for exercise, but slows the process down 

I love Rowenta, but my favorite iron is my Oliso Auto-Lift iron.  Wonderful!  Love it!  http://www.oliso.com/iron/index.php  I talk more about it here: http://sometimescrafter.blogspot.com/2008/07/things-i-love-week.htm