This is what I do, sounds simple but it works every time. Get a small container, I use an old margarine tub. Piece of kitchen towel/paper in the bottom, seeds laid out separately, piece of kitchen towel/paper on top. Mix a very weak solution of fert, quarter of recommended strength. Dribble the fert over paper towels so it's moist all over. Close lid, put somewhere dark and warm, I use the hot water boiler cupboard. Leave it alone for two days. When you open it again your seeds will have sprouted. If they haven't yet, stick it back in the cupboard for another day.

You get the occassional duff seed but it's rare.

peace