I was curious to know if it's possible to purchase 'custom' chainrings. That is, chainrings with patterns in them. I've built a couple of lowrider bikes in years past and have picked up some chainrings for them that were stamped with hearts or filigree patterns.

I'm currently building a fixie and would like some flavor in my chainring.

Thanks!
cmh

use a bmx crank w/euro BB. then you can use any of the fancy bmx chainrings.
or there's the paul cranks.

Evannyc has a nice one on his circle A.

But I am curious, how do the cranks connect with the rings, and does that connection have the strength to handle the extreme torque of a fixed gear?

www.paulcomp.com

the chainring bolts to the crank arm with 4 chainring bolts a la LeVeL hubs system. Secure enough to be intended for use on the track. Secure enough for DW to use them on a track tandem!

Paul cranks are intended for use at the track? You are kind of limited using a 48 tooth chainring on the track. That said, riding fixed on the road is a lot more abusive to parts that riding on the track.