Fretwork Colony is an Uncommon black Insect creature from the 2016 Kaladesh expansion. This card features distinct upkeep mechanics that define its strategic role.
Fretwork Colony
2016 • Magic: The Gathering • Kaladesh
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Description
Fretwork Colony stands as a notable black Insect creature within the 2016 Kaladesh expansion. Released as card number 83 with the KLD set code, this Uncommon rarity card offers collectors a piece of Magic: The Gathering’s diverse creature ecosystem. The design and mechanics reflect the intricate, clockwork-inspired world of the Kaladesh plane, appealing to fans of the set's unique aesthetic and thematic depth. Strategically, Fretwork Colony presents a compelling risk-reward dynamic for players. With a mana cost of {1}{B} and a mana value of 2, it enters the battlefield efficiently. However, its limitations are significant: the creature cannot block opponents and forces its controller to lose 1 life at the beginning of their upkeep. To counter this drawback, the card provides a growth mechanism, placing a +1/+1 counter on itself each turn. This allows the 1/1 base body to grow over time, potentially becoming a threatening presence if the game lasts long enough. This interplay of gradual strength and constant life drain makes it a favorite for decks that can sustain the life loss or utilize the growing body for late-game pressure. For collectors, the card is illustrated by Christopher Burdett, whose artwork brings the insectoid swarm to life within the Kaladesh setting. The flavor text hints at the creature's behavior, noting how the swarm leaves behind a flawless pattern that occasionally threatens the wood's structural integrity. This detail adds narrative depth to the card, connecting it to the broader lore of the set. Whether you are building a collection of Kaladesh rares and commons or seeking specific black creatures for your library, Fretwork Colony represents a key component of the set's creature lineup.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Fretwork Colony
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Christopher Burdett
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}
Creature — Insect
1 / 1
B
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
This creature can't block. At the beginning of your upkeep, put a +1/+1 counter on this creature and you lose 1 life.
The swarm leaves behind a flawless pattern that only occasionally threatens the structural integrity of the wood.









