A prefabricated formed edge guide for fireproofing a structural steel member and method of use is disclosed, which includes a formed edge, a set of mesh surfaces attached to the formed edge, and a thickness formed by the formed edge and the set of mesh surfaces. A fireproofed structure is disclosed that includes a member including a set of surfaces, a set of the preformed edge guides attached to the set of surfaces, and a fireproofing thickness formed by the formed edge and the set of mesh surfaces. A fireproofing material is adhered to the member using the set of preformed edge guides and the fireproofing thickness to create the fireproofed structure. The fireproofing material may be applied in one single layer or in successive layers.