Piercer Spotlight: Sofia Ortiz (Fia)

Piercer Spotlight: Sofia Ortiz (Fia) at Copperhead Tattoo & Piercing in Austin, TX

If you have ever admired a perfectly curated ear in Austin and thought, wow, that just works, there is a good chance Sofia Ortiz, better known as Fia, had something to do with it.

Sofia is a professional piercer at Copperhead Tattoo & Piercing in Austin, Texas, where she is known for her intuitive eye, love of fine gold jewelry, and ability to turn even the most frustrating piercing setups into something elevated, intentional, and beautiful. Clients travel across Austin and beyond to work with her, whether they are getting their first piercing or upgrading a full ear project.

We sat down with Sofia to talk about her journey into piercing, her creative process, and why some of the most meaningful moments happen after the jewelry goes in.

From Inspiration to Professional Piercer in Austin

Sofia’s path into professional piercing started with people, not trends.

“I was blessed with an incredible opportunity through a close and inspiring friend,” she says. Watching someone she admired pursue their passion gave her the push she needed to follow her own.

That leap turned into three phenomenal years in the piercing industry, all built on trust, patience, and skill development.

“I learned the importance of truly paying attention to my mentor, asking questions without fear, doing my own research, and building confidence in my skills.”

That foundation is still present in her work today, especially in the way she listens to clients and approaches every piercing with care.

Fine Gold Jewelry, Curated Piercings, and Thoughtful Placement

Ask Sofia what she specializes in and the answer comes easily: fine gold jewelry curation.

At Copperhead Tattoo & Piercing, she especially enjoys working with uneven piercings or placements clients have never felt confident about.

“I enjoy creating elegant cluster placements and curated stacks that bring balance, style, and renewed vision,” she explains.

Her artistic style is intuitive and deeply personal. Instead of forcing trends, she listens carefully, asks thoughtful questions, and designs piercings that feel elevated, wearable, and uniquely suited to each client.

“What makes me unique is my ability to see potential where others may not.”

That ability is exactly why clients seek her out for curated ear projects and jewelry upgrades in Austin.

What It’s Like to Get Pierced by Sofia at Copperhead

Getting pierced can feel intimidating, especially for first-timers. Sofia understands that and makes comfort a priority.

She creates a calm, welcoming environment, communicates clearly throughout the process, and makes sure every question is answered before moving forward. Clients often mention how relaxed they feel during appointments with her.

For Sofia, the best artist-client relationships come down to mutual trust and confidence.

While she enjoys clients who arrive with a clear vision, her favorite moments are collaborative. Those are the sessions where an idea evolves into something even more intentional and beautifully curated.

If someone is unsure what piercing they want, Sofia adapts her approach. Sometimes that means exploring the jewelry display. Other times, it means assessing anatomy, existing piercings, and personal style before offering a curated suggestion.

She has a strong eye for pairing jewelry with anatomy, helping clients leave Copperhead feeling confident in their final design.

Why Sofia Chose Copperhead Tattoo & Piercing

Sofia’s connection to Copperhead started as a client.

“What first drew me to the shop was getting pierced by Kayla,” she says. That experience quickly turned into something more.

She fell in love with the jewelry selection and, more importantly, the bond she built with the team.

“Everyone here works incredibly hard and is always striving to be better. I’ve never been in such an inspiring environment.”

To Sofia, Copperhead Tattoo & Piercing is a place where you can truly be yourself while having the space and support to grow in a motivated, driven environment.

A Jewelry Project She’ll Never Forget

When asked about a favorite project, Sofia immediately thinks of a jewelry upgrade using the Wild Hearts Clicker by Buddha Jewelry Organics.

The craftsmanship stood out, but the emotional impact mattered most.

“When my client saw the final look, we both teared up,” Sofia says. “She told me it felt healing, like reclaiming a part of herself.”

Moments like that are why Sofia loves what she does. Piercing is not just aesthetic. It can be emotional, personal, and deeply meaningful.

Life Outside the Austin Piercing Studio

Outside of the studio, Sofia enjoys a little bit of everything and sometimes absolutely nothing.

She loves spending time in nature, gardening, crafting, experimenting with new recipes, and being with the people she cares about. She also has an unapologetic obsession with ducks.

As for her own piercings, she has plenty. Her favorite is her philtrum, adorned with the Love Language piece by Buddha Jewelry Organics. Next on her list is a mantis piercing set with pink sapphires.

Her dream project is fully curated ears finished with solid gold and gemstone jewelry.

Advice From Sofia for First-Time Piercing Clients

If you are nervous about getting pierced in Austin, Sofia keeps the advice simple.

“Come well-nourished, relax, and trust the process. It’ll be over before you know it. You’ll do great.”

For anyone interested in becoming a piercer, her advice is just as grounded.

“Be patient, stay focused, and never give up.”

Looking ahead, Sofia is focused on becoming the best version of herself, both as a piercer and as a person. If her work at Copperhead is any indication, that growth is already happening.

Walk-Ins Are Always Welcome!

Come see Sofia at Copperhead for your next or piercing or curation.