How to paint cherry wood?

Hello Martin, You could use Chalk paint straight on with a sealer of Clear or Antique Wax, or paint ESP Primer first then paint of choice on top. Chalk paint is not so robust as Satin/Eggshell or Gloss, but is quicker to do.........

Paint first with a primer,( depends on if you want to repaint your cabinets with a latex paint or an oil paint) I used bulls eye 1,2,3 primer which will prime almost anything you want to change to a water base paint ( latex ). I prefer latex as oil paint will eventually yellow, prime then paint with whatever paint you prefer then there’s no sanding involved, if you are going to repaint them with oil based paint it’s not necessary to prime but you may have to apply two coats to cover the dark color of cherry