I have a jelly roll that I haven't cut into yet (my first.) Very excited about it, too. I'm not planning to wash it - will just start cutting and sewing when I've finished the many other projects that I have on the go right now.
If you can spare the cash I'd recommend Pam & Nicky Lintott's Jelly Roll Quilts book which has heaps of inspiration. I love that book and it seems to be discounted at a number of online book retailers at the moment.
Have fun!