In this paper a spline function solution for the ultimate strength of steel members and member structures is derived based on total Lagrangian formulation. The displacements of members along longitudinal and transverse directions are interpolated by one-order B spline functions and three-order hybrid spline functions respectively. Equilibrium equations are established according to the principle of virtual work. All initial imperfections of members and effects of loading, unloading and reloading of material are taken into account. The influence of the instability of members on structural behavior can be included in analyses. Numerical examples show that the method of this paper can satisfactorily analyze the elasto-plastic large deflection problems of planar steel member and member structures.