Singer Sewing Machine - Mechanical - Model 7442 Review

I purchased the Singer 7442 in an emergency when my old Singer of 35 yrs finally quit.  I was in the middle of a project that had to be done by the weekend, so I ran to "Wal-Mart"  (the only place in town that has sewing machines), and bought the best one I could find there.  I wish I could have had a better selection to choose from.  I would have still chosen a Singer, but I really needed a little more powerful machine.  Also, if I'd have had time to do some research, I would have gotten a model with the better buttonholer, so that it  didn't jam up on me if there is a seam near by.  Even on the finest fabrics, I have trouble with the buttonholer.  I did some test button holes on the fabric and it worked perfectly, but in application with seams near the buttonhole it didn't work very well at all.  This was on a Christening gown, and the same thing happens when I try to put button holes in my grandsons bath robe.   I also have some trouble with the tread jamming up under the plate once is a while.  I was told that could be the thread, so I will try some better thread next time, and the threader is very moody.  Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.  And for the kind of sewing that I do, I prefer the needle to end in the down position and the pressure feet to raise higher, and I need more light. 

Like I said, it's a nice machine for the money, runs smoothly, makes nice stitches, light weight, and easy to operate.  But be sure you know what your needs are before you buy a machine that doesn't meet them.  I'm sure Singer makes a model that would fit all my needs without costing very much more.  I would consider upgrading if I could sell this one.