Experience the foil finish of Spell Snip, card #57 from the 2008 Magic: The Gathering Shards of Alara expansion. This blue instant offers versatile control through its cycling mechanic.
Spell Snip
2008 • Magic: The Gathering • Shards of Alara
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$0.33
Description
Released in 2008 as part of the Shards of Alara expansion, Spell Snip (card #57) remains a recognizable piece of Magic: The Gathering history for collectors of blue mana strategies. As a common card with a foil treatment, this product offers an accessible entry point for enthusiasts building themed collections or seeking specific finishes for their sets. The card functions as an Instant with a mana cost of {2}{U}, allowing players to counter target spells unless the opponent pays an additional {1}. Its versatility is further enhanced by the Cycling ability, which lets the holder discard the card to draw a new one, providing strategic flexibility during gameplay. Spell Snip, illustrated by Michael Sutfin, captures the aesthetic of this era with its clean borders and iconic blue mana symbol. Whether you are a long-time fan of the game or new to the hobby, adding this foil version to your collection provides a tangible connection to one of Magic's most beloved sets. The product represents the enduring appeal of Magic: The Gathering trading cards, combining nostalgic value with the thrill of collecting specific variants. ## What is the cycling ability on Spell Snip? Cycling allows the player to discard Spell Snip and draw a new card by paying {2}. This mechanic provides strategic flexibility, letting collectors and players use the card as an early-game draw spell or save it for later utility. ## Why is the foil version of Spell Snip sought after? The foil treatment gives the card a distinctive shine that stands out in any collection. Collectors often seek foils to add visual variety to their Shards of Alara sets or to enhance the display value of their blue mana cards. ## How does Spell Snip fit into Magic: The Gathering strategy? As a blue instant, Spell Snip is primarily used for interaction, countering opponent's spells. Its low mana cost makes it efficient, while the cycling option ensures it remains useful even if not used for countering.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
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Featured Subject
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Featured
Spell Snip
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Common
Michael Sutfin
Card Stock
English
Foil
{2}{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
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Counter target spell unless its controller pays {1}. Cycling {2} ({2}, Discard this card: Draw a card.)
"Magic cast through a hand of flesh is just as weak as the flesh itself." —Lodus of the Ethersworn






