A method of operating a multi-nozzle extrusion printhead includes operating with a controller a first actuator to produce relative movement between the printhead and an image receiving surface along a predetermined path for one layer of a three-dimensional printed object. The method further includes first printing an outline of a given layer and then printing the interior of the given layer using a plurality of extrusion nozzles. The method further optionally includes extruding material through a portion of the plurality of nozzles and turning on or off individual nozzles to ensure the swaths printed in the interior conform to the profile of the outline.