About Us

We can engrave on many different types of materials, including wood, plastic, acrylic, leather, iodized (or painted) metal, rubber, slate, glass, and just about anything else you request.  Some woods, such as cherry, hickory, maple, walnut, and box elder, are better suited for engraving, and we would prefer to use those woods for engraving with detailed projects.  For items that require simple lettering, most woods we have in stock will work.  Ask us for recommendations for your project.

Our engraving studio consists of a Epilog laser engraver utilizing digital laser technology.  The engraving bed is 12" by 24", with a 3/8" vector cut  for most woods.  We also have a large woodworking shop we use in conjunction with Dick Schwab's business, Woodworks.  Both Dick and Bill value contributing to the well-being of our community by creating objects of beauty and utility in addition to providing financial support to local charities.  Touched by the Light donates a portion of their products every year to local churches and health and human service agencies, as well as benefit auctions for local charities.

The Craftsmen

Dick Schwab was vice-president of National Computer Systems for many years, but he has always had a fascination with working with wood, building barns, and community. His most recent ventures include the construction several large limestone barns, the Solon Dollars for Scholars program, and his two businesses Woodworks and Touched by the Light.

Bill Roush has also had a long fascination with woodworking.  He retired from the Monsanto Corporation in 2000, and has since become more interested in spiritual than financial pursuits.  As a girl scout leader, a religious instructor at Regina High School in Iowa City, and a father of two daughters, Bill's life is very much dedicated to his family.  He started Touched by the Light with Dick as a way from him to supplement his income as a single father of two daughters, but more importantly as a way to express himself creatively.